Cringe

Matt Maeson's song 'Cringe' delves into the complexities of self-perception and the internal battles that come with it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their identity and the way they are perceived by others, particularly a lover. The repeated plea for the lover to 'come over' and 'hold me' suggests a deep yearning for connection and understanding, highlighting the protagonist's sense of isolation and emotional turmoil.

The chorus, where the lover describes the protagonist as a 'bad man' and a 'smooth criminal,' underscores a significant shift in how the protagonist is viewed. This change in perception is further emphasized by the lover's observation that the protagonist's 'spirit doesn't move like it did before' and that they 'don't look like me, no more.' These lines suggest a loss of vitality and authenticity, possibly due to the protagonist's struggles with substance abuse or mental health issues, as hinted by the lines 'I said I'm just tired / She said you're just high.'

The imagery of seeing the lover 'in the water' could symbolize a desire for purification or a return to a more innocent, untainted state. The water might represent a place of clarity and truth, contrasting with the protagonist's current state of confusion and self-doubt. The repeated refrain 'Oh, I make you cringe now' reflects the protagonist's awareness of their changed state and the discomfort it causes in their relationship. This song poignantly captures the pain of losing oneself and the desperate hope for redemption and understanding from those we love.