Meaning of Hard to Find by Tate McRae

Tate McRae's song titled "Hard to Find" delves into the complexities of relationships and the internal struggles that can arise when someone we once knew starts to change. The overarching theme of the song centers around the disintegration of a connection between two individuals, as one person transforms into an unrecognizable version of themselves. The lyrics explore the pain, confusion, and frustration that come with witnessing someone undergo a profound shift in character.One standout lyric in the song is, "Your words hurt more than you think, in your head, these situations end in a blink." This lyric speaks to the emotional impact of the other person's words on the protagonist. The theme that emerges from this line is the power of words and how they can shape and manipulate our perception of reality. It highlights the pain that can be inflicted through hurtful words and raises questions about the authenticity of the other person's intentions.Another lyric that stands out is, "One day, you'll have me laughing 'til I can't breathe, and the next, can you even see me?" This lyric touches on the unpredictable nature of the relationship. It explores the theme of inconsistency, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster the protagonist experiences as they navigate the unpredictable behavior of the other person. This inconsistency creates a sense of instability and unease, making it difficult for the protagonist to feel a sense of security within the relationship.The lyric, "You don't even think from time to time, that's why you're losin' someone close and so am I," sheds light on the theme of introspection and self-awareness. It reveals the lack of reflection on the other person's part, indicating their unawareness of the consequences their actions have on the relationship. This lack of self-reflection ultimately leads to the loss of a close connection, not only for the protagonist but also for the changing person themselves.A further poignant lyric is, "We made so many promises, you never really made them, you'd always go and break them." This line embodies themes of broken trust and unfulfilled promises. It highlights the disparity between what was once promised and what actually takes place, showcasing the disappointment and disillusionment felt by the protagonist. This theme calls attention to the significance of accountability and the erosion of trust that occurs when promises are consistently broken.In a creative and imaginative twist, one can interpret the song's overarching theme as a metaphor for the internal struggle of personal growth. The changing person can represent the narrator's evolving self, and the protagonist's reaction symbolizes the resistance to change that often arises during personal development. The conflicting emotions, the wavering commitment, and the difficulties in understanding both oneself and others are all facets of growth that can make it sometimes hard to recognize our own identity.The song also touches on the theme of societal pressure and the influences that can alter a person's true self. The changing person's friends are described as slowly transforming them into someone the protagonist never thought existed. This theme suggests the external forces that can shape an individual's behavior, highlighting the importance of staying true to oneself despite external pressures.Overall, "Hard to Find" explores themes of personal evolution, trust, emotional turmoil, and the struggle to maintain a connection amidst drastic changes. It captures the profound impact that transformation and inconsistency can have on a relationship, emphasizing the difficulty in recognizing and understanding those we were once close to. By examining various standout lyrics within the song, we uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the larger narrative of an individual's struggle for self-identity and the challenges encountered along the way.