Meaning of Real Life by The Weeknd

The Weeknd's song "Real Life" delves into complex themes of self-destructiveness, emotional detachment, and the consequences of past actions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who struggles with love and relationships, leaving behind a trail of broken hearts. Examining the standout lyrics, we can uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall narrative of the song.In the opening lines, The Weeknd sings, "Tell 'em this boy wasn't meant for lovin', uh / Tell 'em this heart doesn't stay to one." These lyrics suggest a deep-rooted fear of commitment and an inability to fully invest in romantic relationships. This theme of emotional detachment is further emphasized throughout the song, suggesting that the protagonist prefers to keep a safe distance from love to protect themselves from potential heartbreak. This notion evokes the idea that some individuals may struggle with forming deep emotional connections due to past traumas or a fear of vulnerability.Continuing in the chorus, The Weeknd sings, "That's real life, oh, oh-oh / Real life, ooh / Mama talking that real life, oh, oh-oh / That real life, real life, real life, real life." These lyrics imply that the protagonist's mother has had a significant influence on shaping their perspective on love and life. The theme of maternal guidance carries the weight of the protagonist's destructive tendencies. This suggests that the protagonist's defensiveness towards love may stem from their mother's warning that it will ultimately bring ruin. This portrayal allows for a deeper exploration of the impact of parental guidance on one's emotional development.Moving on to the second verse, The Weeknd sings, "I know you don't really understand it, uh / I'm not allowed to regret my choice, mmm / I heard that love is a risk worth taking, uh / I wouldn't know, never been that boy." These lyrics highlight the protagonist's self-imposed restrictions on self-reflection and growth. They acknowledge that they are not allowed to regret past decisions, indicating a refusal to acknowledge personal growth opportunities. This theme plays into the idea that one might sabotage their own chances at happiness due to a fear of change or a hesitancy to confront their own flaws.The bridge adds a compelling layer to the song's narrative, with The Weeknd singing, "Heaven only lets a few in / (Heaven only lets a few in) / It's too late for me to choose it / (It's too late for me to choose it)." These lyrics evoke the theme of missed opportunities and the weight of irreversible choices. The idea that heaven only allows a select few in implies that the protagonist feels excluded from a state of contentment or happiness. This theme further fuels their self-destructive tendencies, making them believe that their choices have permanently barred them from experiencing true fulfillment.To conclude, "Real Life" tackles themes of emotional detachment, the impact of parental guidance, self-imposed restrictions, missed opportunities, and irreversible choices. The song paints a somber and introspective portrait of a person grappling with their past actions and the consequences they face in the present. By analyzing the standout lyrics and exploring imaginative themes that emerge from within, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate narrative woven throughout the song. The Weeknd's ability to evoke such raw emotions and thought-provoking themes is a testament to his skill as an artist.