Meaning of ​school kids​ by Tate McRae

"School Kids" by Tate McRae is a deeply introspective song that explores the complexities of relationship dynamics and the lasting impact they can have on our lives. The overall theme of the song revolves around the protagonist trying to break free from the grip of the past and the emotional baggage that comes with it. It explores the struggle to move on, the desire to escape, and the healing process required to find oneself again.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of these themes is, "Guess I've been wishing for things I've already done." This lyric suggests a longing for things that have already been experienced, indicating a sense of nostalgia or a desire to relive past memories. It highlights the protagonist's discontentment with their present circumstances and their yearning to return to a time when things were simpler and perhaps more innocent.Another impactful lyric is, "You twist up my head so it's unclear, I thought I moved on but I'm back here." This lyric encapsulates the emotional turmoil the protagonist experiences as they grapple with the lingering effects of a past relationship. It conveys a sense of confusion and frustration, as they believed they had moved on, only to find themselves entangled in the same patterns once again. This lyric emphasizes the theme of trying to break free from the past but struggling to do so.The line, "Fixin' myself with a toolkit, I just can't look back to the school kids," is evocative and reinforces the message of the song. Here, the protagonist is using a metaphorical "toolkit" to repair the damage inflicted upon them by the past. It symbolizes their determination to heal and move forward, all while recognizing the need to let go of the past experiences, symbolized by the "school kids." The mention of "school kids" represents the influence of past relationships and how they have shaped the protagonist's perception of themselves and their ability to trust others.The lyric, "Tryna run, run, As fast as I can, from all the rules that they'd bend, 'cause it was easier to just run," explores the idea of escapism and the desire to avoid confronting difficult emotions. The protagonist acknowledges that those from their past had twisted the rules, making it more convenient to run away from them and the pain they caused. This lyric highlights the theme of avoiding confrontation and the fear of facing the aftermath of past experiences.In the third verse, the line, "Been overthinkin' things, but that you already knew, you think that shiny things would cover up what you do? My head really hurts," delves into the internal struggle of the protagonist. It suggests that they have been overanalyzing their emotions and actions but questions whether the person from their past understands the repercussions of their actions. The mention of "shiny things" symbolizes superficial distractions used to mask deeper emotional pain. The lyric conveys the physical and mental toll that the past has taken on the protagonist.Overall, "School Kids" by Tate McRae is a deeply introspective and emotionally charged song that explores themes of longing, escaping the past, healing, and overcoming emotional trauma. Through its poignant lyrics, the song emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, self-care, and the perseverance required to break free from the cycle of past relationship dynamics. It serves as a reminder that while the path to healing might be complex and challenging, it ultimately leads to personal growth and finding oneself again.