Meaning of Why by Shawn Mendes

The song "Why" by Shawn Mendes is a captivating and emotional track that delves into the complexities of a toxic relationship. While on the surface, it may seem like a typical love song, the lyrics actually reveal deeper layers of meaning and explore unique themes. Let's dive into some of the standout lyrics and the imaginative themes they develop.Starting with the opening verse, we are introduced to a girl who is described as a curse. This sets the tone for the song, highlighting the intense and destructive nature of the relationship. The theme of obsession and addiction becomes apparent here, as the narrator admits that no one else compares to her. It speaks to the idea that sometimes we find ourselves perilously addicted to someone, unable to escape their hold on us.Moving on to the pre-chorus, we come across the lines, "When people ask about us, now, we just brush it off, I don't know why we act like it means nothing at all." This brings up the theme of denial and avoidance. The couple puts up a facade, pretending that their relationship doesn't matter to them. It raises the question of why we often deny our true feelings and detach ourselves from the reality of a situation. Perhaps it's a defense mechanism, protecting our fragile hearts from potential pain.The chorus itself is a powerful manifestation of the overall theme. The lyrics "Why do we put each other through hell? Why can't we just get over ourselves?" encapsulate the turbulent nature of the relationship. The theme of self-sabotage arises, as the couple continuously repeats self-destructive patterns. It suggests that they are trapped in an endless cycle of hurting each other and themselves, unable to break free.Another intriguing lyric is found in the second verse: "When I hear you sing, it gets hard to breathe, Can't help but think every song's about me." This lyric introduces the theme of insecurity and a distorted sense of self-importance. The narrator is so consumed by their own ego that they believe everything revolves around them. It highlights the destructive nature of narcissism and the potential harm it can bring to a relationship.Continuing with the second verse, the line "You are the muse in the back of my mind" unveils the theme of artistic inspiration. While the rest of the song focuses on the toxic aspects of the relationship, this lyric adds a touch of beauty and creativity to the narrative. It implies that even amidst the chaos, the person still serves as a source of inspiration for the narrator's art. It suggests that great art can be born out of pain and heartbreak.In the final section of the song, the repetition of the opening lines "I know a girl, she's like a curse" reinforces the overarching theme of the song. The toxic nature of the relationship continues to be emphasized, and the haunting imagery of the curse creates a sense of inevitability and an inability to escape.In conclusion, "Why" by Shawn Mendes beautifully explores the intricate dynamics of a toxic relationship. Through imaginative and unexpected themes, the song delves into addiction, denial, self-sabotage, insecurity, artistic inspiration, and more. While some may perceive it as a mere love song, a closer examination reveals profound insights into the complexities of human emotion and relationships. The lyrics, carefully woven together, paint a vivid picture of the trials and tribulations faced when trapped in a toxic bond.