Pride (feat. Mxmtoon)

Noah Kahan's song "Pride (feat. Mxmtoon)" delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the pain of watching someone you care about move on without you. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of loneliness and longing, as the protagonist finds themselves home alone, consumed by thoughts of a past relationship. The repeated refrain of being cut off and left alone with their thoughts highlights the isolation and abandonment they feel. This sense of loss is compounded by the memories of when communication was open and easy, contrasting sharply with the current state of disconnection.

The song also explores the theme of pride and how it can be wounded in the face of rejection. The protagonist's pride is hurt as they see their former partner enjoying life with new friends, seemingly unaffected by the breakup. The line "It hurts my pride just a little, yes I died just a little" encapsulates the dual pain of emotional and egoistic suffering. The imagery of photos showing the ex-partner letting their hair down and having fun serves as a painful reminder of what the protagonist has lost, deepening their sense of inadequacy and rejection.

Furthermore, the song touches on the difficulty of moving on when feelings are still strong. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of caring too much and trying to understand their ex-partner's plans, only to be led on and left hanging. This emotional limbo is frustrating and painful, as they struggle to let go and move forward. The repeated plea for honesty and the acknowledgment that the ex-partner doesn't have to lie about being busy or tired underscores the desire for closure and the end of false hopes. Ultimately, "Pride" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, loss, and the struggle to maintain one's dignity in the face of heartache.