Roster

Maddy Hicks' song "Roster" delves into the complex emotions of heartbreak, self-discovery, and the cyclical nature of pain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has been hurt repeatedly and is now trying to manage their pain by rotating through different relationships. This rotation is a coping mechanism, an attempt to dilute the intensity of the hurt by spreading it across multiple people. However, this strategy backfires, as the protagonist finds themselves more broken than before, realizing that broken things can keep breaking.

The song also explores the theme of self-deception and the struggle to maintain emotional authenticity. The protagonist worries that others might think they are faking their pain, which adds another layer of emotional turmoil. This fear of being misunderstood or judged for their genuine feelings is a poignant aspect of the song. The lyrics, "No love in 5 years, at least these are my tears," highlight a sense of isolation and the passage of time without meaningful connections, emphasizing the protagonist's loneliness and emotional exhaustion.

Another significant theme in "Roster" is the loss of self. The protagonist reflects on how they have changed over time, losing the part of themselves that once believed in love and looked up to their own ideals. This loss is symbolized by the metaphor of building a roster, which initially seemed like a way to protect themselves but ultimately led to further emotional damage. The song's introspective nature invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love, pain, and the ways they cope with emotional wounds. Maddy Hicks' heartfelt lyrics and evocative storytelling make "Roster" a deeply relatable and emotionally resonant piece.