Tough Love Lyrics – Gracie Abrams

[Chorus]
In the chorus, she recalls laughing when her ex tried to call her bluff, illustrating how she initially treated the situation lightly. However, the seriousness of the breakup hits her later. She?s resolved not to waste her twenties on unworthy men, emphasizing the value she places on her friends over romantic relationships. Despite the pain of leaving him, she?s confident in her decision, knowing it's for her own good.

[Verse 2]
The second verse shifts to a scene by the Charles River, where she finds solace and a sense of home. She mentions being with the sister of a boy she met through college connections, highlighting the random yet meaningful interactions that shape her life. This woman is honest and direct, qualities the protagonist admires, even though they often drive people away. This reflects the protagonist?s own struggle with honesty in her relationships.

[Bridge]
The bridge dives deeper into her mixed emotions. She admits she?ll miss certain aspects of her ex, like his presence in bed, but she won?t miss the negative parts of the relationship. She lists his friends, ego, and shallow thinking as things she won?t miss, along with the denial of her own reasons for staying. This part captures her process of coming to terms with the breakup and recognizing the importance of her own needs and feelings.

[Popular Phrases Explained]

1. "I took a train to Boston and I wanted to cry" - This line sets the scene of emotional turmoil and a significant journey, both literal and metaphorical.

2. "He's gone, I'm twenty-four and it's a Saturday night" - Highlights her young age and the loneliness felt on a night typically associated with social activities.

3. "I hate when we fight, sucks when we fight" - Emphasizes the repetitive and painful nature of their arguments.

4. "But, honestly, whatever, he's just one of the boys" - Shows her attempt to downplay the significance of the relationship.

5. "For no chance I waste my twenties on random men" - A declaration of her commitment to valuing her time and experiences.

6. "Not one of them is cooler than all my friends" - Highlights the importance she places on her friendships over romantic interests.

7. "At night it's kind of tempting just to see if you float" - Suggests a dark humor and a moment of contemplation by the river.

8. "She liked to tell the truth and she was harsh but direct" - Describes a character she admires for their honesty, reflecting her own aspirations.

9. "No, I'm gonna miss the way he'd kick me in my bed while sleepin'" - Mixed emotions about the physical presence of her ex.

10. "And I'm not gonna miss his old inflated ego, shallow thinking" - Critiques her ex?s negative traits, reinforcing her decision to leave. ...Read Less