Real House

Nicotine Dolls' song 'Real House' delves into the bittersweet nature of a relationship built on illusions and the comfort found in shared fantasies. The lyrics paint a picture of two people who have been 'playing house,' creating a make-believe world where they can escape the harsh realities of life. This fantasy, however, is threatened when the 'rent went up,' symbolizing the intrusion of real-world problems into their idyllic scenario. The protagonist is reluctant to leave this fantasy, cherishing the unspoken moments and the emotional connection they share, even if it's based on a script they've written together.

The song uses metaphors of television and movies to illustrate the relationship. The 'TV sets' and 'trash TV' represent the mundane and sometimes disappointing aspects of life that the couple tries to escape from. The protagonist doesn't want to be the reason for their partner's sadness, indicating a deep sense of responsibility and care. The 'real house with real walls' symbolizes a grounded, realistic life that the partner yearns for, contrasting with the protagonist's desire to stay in the 'good dream' of their fantasy world. This dichotomy highlights the tension between reality and illusion, and the comfort found in the latter.

The recurring theme of reruns and starting over suggests a longing to relive the good moments and avoid the inevitable end. The protagonist's reluctance to 'handle losing my best friend' underscores the emotional stakes involved. The song captures the essence of clinging to a comforting illusion, even when faced with the necessity of moving on. It's a poignant reflection on the human tendency to find solace in fantasies, especially when reality becomes too difficult to bear.