we're not alike

Tate McRae's song 'we're not alike' delves into the emotional turmoil and sense of betrayal that comes from a broken friendship. The lyrics suggest a narrative where the singer feels deceived by someone they once considered close. The opening lines set the tone with a self-reflective acknowledgment of poor judgment, implying that the singer regrets getting close to the person who ultimately betrayed them. The recurring theme of time not healing the wounds suggests that the betrayal is still fresh, possibly because the truth has not been fully revealed or acknowledged by the other party.

The chorus of the song is particularly telling, with McRae accusing the other person of being dishonest about their loyalty. The phrase 'girl's girl' is used to describe someone who is supposed to be supportive of other women, but in this case, it's revealed to be a facade. The imagery of having a knife in the back is a classic metaphor for betrayal, and the repetition of this act ('once then she did it twice') emphasizes the depth of the deceit. The rhetorical question 'And you wonder why we're not alike?' serves as a refrain that underscores the differences between the singer and the betrayer, highlighting a moral divide that cannot be bridged.

Tate McRae's musical style often includes raw emotional expression and relatable lyrics that resonate with a younger audience. In 'we're not alike,' she captures the feelings of hurt and disillusionment that come with realizing someone is not who they pretended to be. The song's narrative is a common experience, particularly among young people navigating complex social dynamics, and McRae's candid storytelling allows listeners to connect with the music on a personal level.