Rom-com Gone Wrong
Matt Maltese
Heartbreak in a Rom-Com: Matt Maltese's 'Rom-com Gone Wrong'
Matt Maltese's 'Rom-com Gone Wrong' is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and the disillusionment that follows a failed relationship. The song's title itself sets the stage for a narrative that subverts the typical romantic comedy tropes, where love conquers all and happy endings are guaranteed. Instead, Maltese presents a raw and unfiltered look at the aftermath of a breakup, where the protagonist finds himself grappling with the harsh reality that life doesn't always mirror the idealized versions we see on screen.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's daily struggle to move on. Lines like 'New day, wet shave / This is a different phase' and 'Long baths, podcasts / I'm crying when I'm smashed' highlight the mundane yet emotionally charged routines that define his new normal. The mention of 'her veins, her face' and 'some things you can't erase' suggests a deep, lingering attachment to his ex-partner, making it clear that the wounds of the breakup are still fresh and painful.
Maltese's use of metaphors and cultural references adds depth to the song's narrative. The comparison to a 'rom-com gone wrong' encapsulates the sense of betrayal and confusion that often accompanies a breakup. The protagonist feels like he's living in a twisted version of a romantic comedy, where instead of finding love, he's left to deal with the fallout. The line 'I'm just the start of your documentary' further emphasizes his sense of insignificance and the feeling that his role in his ex-partner's life was merely a fleeting chapter. This song resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of unrequited love and the struggle to find closure in a world that often romanticizes relationships.