Pretend It's OK
Little Mix
The Struggle of Pretending: Little Mix's 'Pretend It's OK'
Little Mix's song 'Pretend It's OK' delves into the emotional turmoil of masking one's true feelings and the struggle of maintaining a facade of normalcy. The lyrics poignantly ask, 'What would you do? What would you say? How does it feel? Pretend it's OK,' highlighting the internal conflict of pretending everything is fine when it is not. This recurring question underscores the difficulty of facing reality and the emotional labor involved in keeping up appearances.
The song reflects on past memories and the longing to go back and make things right. Lines like 'I remember the day when we were out all night, I wish that I can get the day back and tell you it's alright' convey a sense of regret and nostalgia. The mention of 'living on borrowed time' suggests an awareness of the fleeting nature of life and the urgency to address unresolved issues before it's too late.
The chorus, with its repetition of 'Pretend it's OK,' emphasizes the theme of denial and the effort to convince oneself that everything is fine. The lyrics 'My eyes deceive me, but it's still the same' suggest a disconnect between perception and reality, where one tries to ignore the truth despite knowing it deep down. The song also touches on the pain of unspoken words and the isolation that comes with pretending, as seen in the lines 'Nothing here, no one talking, knowin' it's too late.'
Overall, 'Pretend It's OK' captures the emotional struggle of hiding one's true feelings and the impact of unresolved emotions on one's mental well-being. It speaks to the universal experience of putting on a brave face while dealing with inner turmoil, making it a relatable and poignant piece for many listeners.