Meaning of Pride by Noah Kahan

Noah Kahan's song "Pride" is a powerful exploration of the emotions and struggles in a relationship. The overall theme of the song revolves around the battle between pride and vulnerability, as well as the pain and confusion that can arise when someone tries to move on from a past love. Through his intimate and heartfelt lyrics, Kahan delves into the complexities of human emotions and the impact they have on our relationships.One standout lyric in the song is, "Honey, you don't have to lie, that you're busy or too tired." This lyric uncovers the theme of deception and dishonesty in a relationship. It suggests that the other person may be trying to hide their true feelings or intentions, causing confusion and hurt for the speaker. This theme of deception can be linked to the idea that people often mask their vulnerability with false reasons for their actions.Another important lyric in "Pride" is, "It hurts my pride just a little, yes, I die just a little." This lyric brings out the theme of wounded pride and the anguish that comes from feeling rejected or replaced. The speaker's pride is wounded as they witness their former partner enjoying new experiences and forming connections with new friends. This theme of wounded pride reflects the universal human desire for validation and the pain that arises when it is not met.A more imaginative and unexpected theme that emerges from the song is the idea of identity and self-discovery in the wake of a relationship. The lyric, "You're not in my head, you're under my skin, and in my blood," suggests that the speaker is grappling with the profound impact their past lover has had on their sense of self. This theme explores how relationships shape and influence our identities, and the struggle to regain a sense of self after a breakup.Furthermore, the idea of the passage of time and the resilience of love is another theme that can be derived from the song. The line, "Save me the trouble, I don't want to suffer, move on, move on," reflects the speaker's desire to move forward and let go. However, the repetition of the chorus suggests that despite their intentions, they are unable to fully let go. This theme highlights the enduring nature of love and the difficulty in completely severing emotional ties.In conclusion, "Pride" by Noah Kahan delves into the myriad of emotions experienced in a failing relationship. Through his poignant lyrics, Kahan explores themes of deception, wounded pride, self-discovery, and the resilience of love. The song serves as a relatable and introspective exploration of the universal struggles faced in matters of the heart.