Don't Cry

Maddie Malekos' song 'Don't Cry' delves into the emotional turmoil and pressures faced by individuals, particularly young people, in today's fast-paced world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone overwhelmed by academic responsibilities, social expectations, and personal insecurities. The repeated refrain 'Don't cry' serves as both a self-reassurance and a societal command to maintain composure despite internal chaos.

The song's protagonist is 'sixteen assignments behind' and 'running late,' highlighting the immense academic pressure that many students face. This line captures the anxiety and stress of trying to keep up with demanding schedules and the fear of falling behind. The mention of being hurt by someone who is 'insensitive' but trying to brush it off further emphasizes the emotional strain and the effort to maintain a facade of strength.

Malekos uses metaphors like 'pretend we see blue skies' and 'put it back together' to illustrate the act of masking true feelings and pretending everything is fine. The lyrics 'smile it's not like they know that you're faking' reveal the internal struggle of maintaining appearances while feeling overwhelmed. The song ends on a poignant note with the repeated 'Don't cry, wave goodbye,' suggesting a farewell to the facade and an acknowledgment of the underlying pain. This song resonates with anyone who has felt the pressure to appear 'just fine' while grappling with their own challenges.