Tough Love Lyrics – Gracie Abrams

[Verse 1]
In the first verse, Abrams sets the scene with a vivid description of her emotional state as she embarks on a journey to Boston. The train ride symbolizes a transition, both physically and emotionally, as she reflects on a recent breakup. The mention of her age, twenty-four, underscores the youth and uncertainty that accompany her decision to leave. The jacket with a rip signifies the remnants of the relationship, something she holds onto despite the pain. The verse also touches on her resignation to the reality of fleeting relationships, acknowledging the temporary nature of her past connections.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus introduces the concept of "tough love," where Abrams admits that she is serious about her decision to leave. The phrase "not charmed so I'm leavin'" highlights her resolve to prioritize her own happiness over the illusion of romance. This section reinforces her awareness that staying in an unfulfilling relationship isn't worth the emotional cost.

[Chorus]
In the chorus, Abrams reflects on the moment she decides to end the relationship, finding a sense of dark humor in her partner's disbelief. The line "it's always funny until it's not" captures the shift from lightheartedness to the sobering reality of the breakup. She emphasizes her determination not to waste her twenties on relationships that don't add value to her life, showing a clear preference for the company of her friends over men who can't measure up. The chorus underscores her growth and the newfound clarity she has about what she truly wants.

[Verse 2]
The second verse paints a picture of Abrams' new life after the breakup. As she walks by the river and contemplates her surroundings, she finds solace in the familiarity of the Charles River, symbolizing her return to a place of comfort. The interaction with the sister of a boy she once knew illustrates the serendipitous encounters that can happen when she's no longer tied down by a relationship. This verse contrasts the past relationship with her current state of independence, emphasizing her ability to connect with others on her own terms.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus reiterates the theme of "tough love," but this time, it focuses on her ex-partner's realization of what he's lost. Abrams views the breakup as a form of necessary tough love, one that he may not have appreciated at the time but will eventually understand. The imagery of him "crumbling to pieces" reflects the emotional impact of her departure on him, even as she moves forward.

[Chorus]
In the chorus, Abrams revisits the moment of her decision to leave, reinforcing her conviction that staying would have been a waste of her time. The repetition of her refusal to "waste my twenties on random men" further emphasizes her commitment to self-respect and personal growth. She acknowledges the pain of leaving her partner behind but remains resolute in her choice to pursue a life that aligns with her values.

[Post-Chorus]
The post-chorus serves as a reflective moment where Abrams reaffirms her decision, acknowledging that she now fully understands what she was leaving for. This realization marks the culmination of her journey, as she embraces the clarity and purpose that came from ending the relationship.

[Bridge]
The bridge is a powerful declaration of all the things Abrams will not miss about her ex-partner and their relationship. She lists the negative aspects, from his disrespectful behavior to his shallow thinking, illustrating the toxicity that she is now free from. This section reveals the deeper reasons behind her decision to leave, reinforcing the importance of self-respect and the recognition of her own worth.