Takes One To Know One

The Beaches' song 'Takes One To Know One' delves into the tumultuous and often toxic dynamics of a relationship where both parties are equally flawed. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals who are anti-social, maladjusted, and non-committal, yet find a strange sense of camaraderie in their shared dysfunction. The opening lines, where one person throws the other's belongings into a Rubbermaid container to provoke a reaction, set the tone for a relationship built on petty acts and emotional outbursts.

The chorus, 'God, you're a piece of work / Oh, it takes one to know one,' encapsulates the essence of the song. It suggests that both individuals recognize their own flaws in each other, creating a bond that is both self-aware and self-destructive. The reference to 'Lost boys in J-Crew shirts' and 'Bros dressed like we're grown-ups' adds a layer of irony, highlighting the immaturity and superficiality that underpin their interactions. This imagery serves to underscore the idea that despite their adult appearances, they are still grappling with juvenile behaviors and attitudes.

The song also touches on the impact of their upbringing, hinting that their parents might have been 'sky-high or something' while raising them. This line suggests a lack of proper guidance and perhaps even neglect, contributing to their current state of maladjustment. The repeated line, 'Count on me 'cause I'll one up it,' further emphasizes the competitive nature of their relationship, where each person tries to outdo the other's negative actions. In essence, 'Takes One To Know One' is a raw and candid exploration of a relationship where mutual recognition of flaws becomes the foundation for a chaotic yet strangely cohesive bond.