Same OI' Mistakes

Rihanna's 'Same Ol' Mistakes' delves into the complex emotions surrounding personal growth and the fear of repeating past errors. The song opens with a sense of external judgment, as the protagonist hears voices questioning her decisions. This sets the stage for an internal conflict where she acknowledges the changes she's undergone, yet remains haunted by the possibility of falling into old patterns. The lyrics 'Feeling it overtake / All that I used to hate' suggest a transformation, but one that is fraught with the risk of reverting to familiar, yet detrimental, behaviors.

The chorus, with its repetitive lines 'Feel like a brand new person / But you'll make the same ol' mistakes,' encapsulates the duality of the protagonist's experience. On one hand, she feels renewed and in love, but on the other, there's a persistent voice warning her of impending failure. This internal dialogue highlights the struggle between embracing change and the fear of its impermanence. The lyrics 'I finally know what it's like / You don't have what it takes' further emphasize this tension, suggesting a newfound understanding that is still overshadowed by self-doubt.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist asserts her right to make her own choices, even if they are perceived as mistakes by others. Lines like 'Maybe fake's what I like / The point is I have the right' reflect a defiant stance against societal expectations. The song concludes with a mix of hope and uncertainty, as the protagonist continues to grapple with her identity and the consequences of her actions. The recurring theme of 'Stop thinking you're the only option' serves as a reminder to consider multiple perspectives and possibilities, rather than being confined to a singular path.