Glad You Did
Sasha Alex Sloan
Breaking Free from Toxic Love
Sasha Alex Sloan's "Glad You Did" is a poignant narrative about recognizing and escaping from a dysfunctional relationship. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the insidious nature of toxic relationships, where the signs of dysfunction can often be overlooked when they become a normalized part of daily life. Sloan uses metaphors like a 'bad day you can't escape' and a 'black cloud dragging you down' to describe the oppressive and negative impact a toxic partner can have on someone's well-being and self-perception.
The chorus of the song serves as both a realization and a call to action. It acknowledges the difficulty of leaving something familiar, even when it's harmful, but also emphasizes the importance of taking that step towards freedom. The repeated lines 'I know it's hard to start the car' and 'But pack your bags and don't look back' suggest the initial challenge of leaving but promise a future where the person will be 'glad you did.' This future is one where the individual can shine without being overshadowed by their partner's negativity.
The bridge of the song shifts the perspective to a time after the escape, reinforcing the message that leaving the dysfunctional relationship was the right decision. The lyrics 'No more hiding anymore' and 'No more going to bed feeling tight in your chest' highlight the relief and peace that come with breaking free. The song ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that although starting over can be daunting, it leads to a life where one can live authentically and without fear.