Meaning of Use Somebody / Treat You Better (mtv Unplugged) by Shawn Mendes

In Shawn Mendes' mesmerizing rendition of "Use Somebody / Treat You Better" during MTV Unplugged, he not only captivates the audience with his soulful voice but also invites us to delve into the depths of his emotions. Combining two powerful songs, Mendes creates a beautiful tapestry of longing, desire, and the complexities of love that resonate with listeners. As we explore the lyrics, we uncover numerous standout themes that add layers of depth and imagination to the overarching theme of the song.The primary theme that unifies both "Use Somebody" and "Treat You Better" is the yearning for connection and the desire for a love that surpasses the current circumstances. Mendes poignantly expresses the universal need for companionship, someone to understand and support us on our journey through life. The quest for affection and the longing to feel wanted are central themes that permeate the lyrics.In "Use Somebody," we witness Mendes' yearning to find someone who truly sees him, beyond the facades and pretenses. As he sings, "I've been roaming around, always looking down and all I see, painted faces, fill the places I can't reach," he articulates a shared desire to be understood and loved authentically. This theme paints a picture of a world where people wear masks to navigate their day-to-day lives, yearning for someone who can see through the veneer and connect on a deeper level.With "Treat You Better," Mendes transitions to a more assertive tone, encouraging his love interest to recognize her own worth. While acknowledging that her current partner is not the right fit, he sings, "I know I can treat you better than he can, and any girl like you deserves a gentleman." This theme delves into the importance of self-worth and the need to choose partners who value and respect us.One unexpected theme that emerges from these lyrics is the desire to escape societal expectations and find solace in an authentic connection. When Mendes sings, "Countless lovers under cover through the street," in "Use Somebody," he touches on the idea that love should transcend societal norms. This theme encourages listeners to break free from societal pressures and expectations, bravely pursuing love that speaks to their true desires.Another standout theme that arises from the lyrics is the importance of communication and voicing one's emotions. Mendes emphasizes the significance of addressing one's feelings openly and honestly, rather than bottling them up inside. In "Treat You Better," he entices his love interest to express her desires, singing, "And anytime you want it to stop, I know I can treat you better." This theme highlights the transformative power of communication within relationships and encourages listeners to voice their needs and wants.Building on the theme of escapism, yet adopting a more imaginative approach, there is an underlying motif of time manipulation throughout the lyrics. In "Treat You Better," Mendes sings, "I'll stop time for you, the second you say that you'd like me to." This theme adds a sense of magical realism, suggesting that love has the power to transcend the constraints of time. It invites listeners to envision a world where time can be held still for moments of bliss and connection.In conclusion, Shawn Mendes' MTV Unplugged rendition of "Use Somebody / Treat You Better" is a masterful intertwining of two powerful songs bound by the overarching theme of longing for love and connection. Through standout lyrics, such as the desire to escape societal expectations, the significance of communication, and the motif of time manipulation, Mendes crafts a vivid and imaginative portrayal of the complexities of relationships. As we immerse ourselves in the ethereal melodies and poetic lyrics, we cannot help but reflect on our own desires, yearning for that connection that goes beyond the surface, leaving us captivated and moved.