Meaning of Knew Better/Forever Boy (DWT First Stop Version) by Ariana Grande

In Ariana Grande's song "Knew Better/Forever Boy (DWT First Stop Version)", she explores the themes of self-worth, empowerment, and the journey of personal growth. The song is divided into two parts, each with its own unique message, but both ultimately pointing towards the same theme.The first part, "Knew Better", sets the tone for the song. Ariana expresses her newfound independence and confidence, declaring that she sees through the false promises of a past lover. The lyrics, "Say you could turn me on, boy, but that's about it / You can say what you wanna, but I wouldn't believe it," highlight the idea that actions speak louder than words. Ariana emphasizes that she is no longer swayed by empty promises and seeks someone who can truly love and appreciate her. This theme of self-worth allows her to move forward and create a better future for herself.Another significant lyric that develops the theme is, "Make a mistake, you better learn from it / Play with tea, you get burned from it." Here, Ariana acknowledges the importance of learning from past experiences. She encourages personal growth and self-improvement, explaining that one should not dwell on mistakes but instead use them as stepping stones to become a better person. This lyric portrays resilience and the ability to overcome challenges, further reinforcing the theme of personal growth and empowerment.The chorus of "Knew Better" solidifies the song's primary message. The lyrics, "If you knew better, you would do better / Baby, if you love me like I love you, maybe we could be together / 'Cause ain't nobody like me, ain't nobody like me," convey a sense of self-empowerment. Ariana recognizes her own worth and challenges her partner to change their ways if they truly love her. This highlights the importance of mutual respect and equal effort in a relationship.Transitioning to the second part of the song, "Forever Boy", Ariana reflects on her past experiences and relationships. In the lyrics, "Never been with a boy more than six months / I couldn't do it, got too used to it," she conveys the idea that she struggled to find lasting connections. However, she acknowledges that each past encounter has led her to this moment, providing her with the knowledge and experience necessary for her current happiness.Through the chorus of "Forever Boy", Ariana reveals her desire for a lasting and fulfilling relationship. The lyric, "Oh, be forever mine, you and I," represents her longing for a love that stands the test of time. It symbolizes her hope for a partner who can match her dedication and commitment. The repetition of "You're my forever, boy" emphasizes the significance of finding someone who can be a lifelong companion.In summary, "Knew Better/Forever Boy (DWT First Stop Version)" is a multifaceted song that explores themes of self-worth, personal growth, and the pursuit of lasting love. Through her lyrics, Ariana Grande promotes the idea of recognizing and valuing one's own worth, learning from past experiences, and seeking a partner who can reciprocate love and commitment. This song serves as an anthem for empowerment and a reminder to embrace personal growth on the journey towards finding true love and happiness.