Angels Like You
Miley Cyrus
The Heartache of Unattainable Love
The song 'Angels Like You' is a deep reflection on relationships that haven't worked out, where the singer sees herself as the cause of her partner's suffering. The lyrics express a sense of guilt and self-criticism, where Miley recognizes that, despite appearing happy, she cannot live up to her lover's expectations. The metaphor of the "angels" suggests that she sees her partner as someone pure and good, who doesn't deserve to be dragged into the "hell" of her emotional complications.
Throughout her career, Miley has been known for her introspective and often autobiographical lyrics. In 'Angels Like You', she reflects on her past relationships, possibly including figures such as Liam Hemsworth, Kaitlynn Carter, or Cody Simpson. The song leaves room for the listener to speculate on which of these exes may have inspired the lyrics, but the main focus is on the feeling of inadequacy and the inevitability of breaking up.
The lyrics also address the idea that "misery loves company", i.e. the tendency for unhappy people to attract each other. Miley sees herself as someone who "ruins everything", incapable of being what her partner needs and recognizes that her presence can be harmful. This brutal honesty is a hallmark of her musical style, where she doesn't hesitate to expose her vulnerabilities and flaws.
Finally, 'Angels Like You' is a song about accepting that some people just aren't compatible, no matter how hard they try. Miley recognizes that, despite her best efforts, she can't change who she is, and that perhaps it's best to let her partner move on, away from her destructive influence. The song is a powerful reminder that sometimes love isn't enough to overcome the fundamental differences between two people.