Meaning of The Patron Saint of Liars and Fakes by Fall Out Boy

"The Patron Saint of Liars and Fakes," by Fall Out Boy, is a song that delves deep into the complexities of relationships and the desperation that lies within them. The overarching theme of the song revolves around the burdens of holding onto grudges, the struggle to maintain a false persona, and the self-destructive nature of trying to control the outcomes of these relationships.One standout lyric in the song is "I'm holding out and I'm holding on to every letter and every grudge." This lyric introduces the theme of holding grudges and reveals the protagonist's reluctance to let go of past grievances. It speaks to the idea that sometimes, people become so intertwined with their negative emotions that they refuse to release them, causing further agony and preventing any healing or growth.Another significant lyric is "I'm all ears and I'm all scars to hear you tell me 'Boy's like you, you try so hard to not look desperate.'" This line explores the desperation that can arise within relationships, particularly in the face of rejection. It highlights the protagonist's vulnerability and the lengths they go to in order to not appear desperate. This theme emphasizes the fear of being alone or unwanted, leading to a constant struggle to maintain a facade of strength.The lyric "When it all goes to hell will you be able to tell me you're sorry with a straight face" adds depth to the theme of relationships and the lack of sincerity that can be present within them. It questions the authenticity of apologies and suggests that sometimes people apologize merely to save face or for their own benefit, rather than truly showing remorse. This theme touches on the idea that relationships can often be built on superficial interactions rather than genuine connections, contributing to a sense of betrayal and disappointment.Additionally, the line "Take this to your grave and I'll take it to mine" introduces the notion of secrecy and hidden truths within relationships. This lyric implies that both parties involved harbor secrets that they are unwilling to share, further intensifying the complexity and dysfunction within the relationship. It explores the idea that maintaining an image and protecting oneself from vulnerability can lead to the demise of true intimacy and connection.Overall, "The Patron Saint of Liars and Fakes" offers a poignant reflection on the unsustainability of relationships built on falsehoods, grudges, and desperation. It digs deep into the emotional struggle that arises when individuals cling to their past grievances, manipulate their identities, and hide their true selves in an attempt to control the outcomes of their relationships. Through its imaginative exploration of these themes, the song encourages listeners to reflect on the destructive patterns that can arise within relationships and the importance of honesty and vulnerability in fostering genuine connections.