Meaning of Cool About It by Phoebe Bridgers

The song "Cool About It" by Phoebe Bridgers, as performed by Boygenius, explores themes of unrequited love, self-deception, and the struggle to maintain composure in the face of emotional turmoil. The overall theme of the song revolves around the protagonist's attempts to appear unaffected by their deep feelings for someone, even though they are clearly deeply affected.One standout lyric that helps develop the theme is "Feelin' like an absolute fool about it." This line expresses the vulnerability and self-consciousness that the protagonist feels in their attempt to hide their emotions. It touches on the notion that sometimes, when we try to present ourselves as "cool" or unaffected, we end up feeling foolish because we are denying our true emotions.Another powerful lyric is "Wishin' you were kind enough to be cruel about it." This line delves into the conflicting desire to be acknowledged and desired by the person they are interested in. The protagonist wishes for the other person to show some sort of negative emotion or rejection, as it would at least signify that their feelings matter. It highlights the paradoxical nature of unrequited love, where even negative emotions can bring some semblance of validation."I came prepared for absolution, so I take some offense when you say, 'No regrets'" is a lyric that unveils the protagonist's readiness to forgive and overlook any shortcomings of the other person. They have mentally prepared themselves to absolve the other person, but they feel hurt when the other person claims to have no regrets. This lyric touches on the dynamic of power and control in relationships, as well as the vulnerability that comes with unrequited love.The line "I can walk you home and practice method acting, I'll pretend being with you doesn't feel like drowning" portrays the lengths the protagonist will go to mask their true emotions. They are willing to act through the pain and discomfort of being with this person, all the while pretending that it doesn't affect them deeply. This theme emphasizes the internal struggle of maintaining a facade while battling inner turmoil.Ultimately, the underlying theme throughout the song is the difficulty of pretending to be "cool" and unaffected when dealing with unrequited love. Phoebe Bridgers and Boygenius use these poignant and introspective lyrics to paint a vivid picture of the emotional struggle that many people experience. The imagery and raw vulnerability present in the song make it relatable and thought-provoking for anyone who has ever grappled with unrequited love or the complexities of human emotions.