Pretender

Thomas Day's song 'Pretender' delves deep into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the struggle to move on. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a fleeting yet impactful relationship, symbolized by 'denim and salty hair' and the sudden, almost unfair, disappearance of the loved one. This imagery sets the stage for the emotional journey that follows, where the protagonist is left grappling with memories and the pain of seeing their former lover with someone else.

The chorus reveals the core of the protagonist's struggle: the desire to escape with their loved one versus the harsh reality of having to let go. The line 'I'm scared I'll have to fake a smile forever' encapsulates the fear of living a life of pretense, unable to genuinely move past the heartbreak. The repeated assertion 'I'll never be a great pretender' underscores the protagonist's inability to mask their true feelings, highlighting the authenticity of their pain and longing.

The song also touches on the theme of eternal love, albeit one that exists only in the mind of the protagonist. The metaphor of being 'wrapped around your finger like a wedding ring' signifies a deep, unfulfilled commitment. Despite the passage of time and the presence of new relationships, the protagonist's love remains undiminished, living on in their thoughts and memories. This poignant portrayal of unrequited love and the difficulty of moving on resonates with anyone who has experienced similar heartache, making 'Pretender' a deeply relatable and emotionally charged song.