Complicated

Olivia Rodrigo's song 'Complicated' delves into the complexities of personal authenticity and the pressures of social conformity. The lyrics express frustration with someone who changes their behavior and personality to fit in with different social groups. Rodrigo's plea for this person to 'chill out' and 'lay back' suggests a desire for simplicity and genuine interaction, free from the pretenses that complicate relationships.

The song highlights the contrast between the person's true self and the facade they put on around others. Rodrigo appreciates the person's authentic self, as seen in lines like 'I like you the way you are when we're drivin' in your car.' However, she becomes frustrated when this person 'acts like somebody else' in social settings, which she perceives as inauthentic and foolish. This duality creates a sense of disconnection and disappointment, as Rodrigo longs for the honesty and simplicity of their private interactions.

'Complicated' also touches on broader themes of self-acceptance and the societal pressures to conform. The repeated lines 'you fall, and you crawl, and you break' reflect the struggles and setbacks that come with trying to navigate these pressures. Rodrigo's insistence on turning these experiences 'into honesty' underscores the importance of staying true to oneself despite external influences. The song ultimately serves as a call for authenticity and a rejection of the superficial behaviors that complicate our lives and relationships.