Girlfriend

Cate's song 'Girlfriend' delves into the complexities and contradictions of modern relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who desires the companionship and intimacy of a girlfriend but is unwilling to commit to the responsibilities and emotional labor that come with being a boyfriend. This paradox is highlighted through lines like 'He says he wants a girlfriend, but he doesn’t want to be a boyfriend,' emphasizing the imbalance and frustration in the relationship dynamic.

The song explores themes of emotional inconsistency and the struggle for genuine connection. The man in the song is depicted as wanting the benefits of a relationship—such as physical touch and emotional support—without the commitment. This is evident in lines like 'He wants a good time, but without any work,' suggesting a desire for a carefree, no-strings-attached relationship. Cate's lyrics also touch on the emotional toll this takes on the woman, who is left feeling unfulfilled and yearning for a deeper connection that she 'can’t have.'

Cate's portrayal of this relationship dynamic is both relatable and poignant, capturing the essence of many modern romantic entanglements. The song's repetitive structure and catchy melody underscore the cyclical nature of these unbalanced relationships, where one party's reluctance to fully commit leaves the other in a state of perpetual longing. Through 'Girlfriend,' Cate offers a candid look at the emotional complexities and often unspoken struggles that define contemporary love and relationships.