Hailee Steinfeld released Afterlife in September 2019 in connection with Dickinson, the Apple TV+ series in which she stars as poet Emily Dickinson. The song was written to reflect the show's themes of youth, death and identity, blending modern pop production with a somber tone. Clips of the track later circulated on soundboards and in fan edits, where its short, atmospheric excerpt became a reusable cue for reflective moments. Its connection to both Steinfeld's music career and acting role keeps it recognizable beyond the series.