Cruel

The song "Cruel" by TWICE delves into the emotional aftermath of a relationship that has turned cold and distant. The lyrics speak from the perspective of someone who is perceived as cruel by their former partner, but this 'cruelty' is actually a form of self-defense and mirroring the actions of the other person. The song opens with a description of the icy gazes and the frozen distance between the two individuals, suggesting a relationship that has become emotionally barren.

As the song progresses, the narrator asserts that they are doing well, contrary to what their ex-partner might have expected. This could be interpreted as a form of empowerment, where the narrator is reclaiming their independence and showing resilience in the face of a breakup. The repeated lines 'You think I'm so cruel / But I'm just doing all the things that you do' indicate that the narrator's actions are a response to how they were treated, suggesting a tit-for-tat scenario. The song challenges the ex-partner to empathize by putting themselves in the narrator's shoes, highlighting the pain and frustration that comes from being misunderstood.

The latter part of the song includes lines that describe the narrator's hardened tone and indifferent expression, as well as fragmented memories and a crushed heart. These elements paint a picture of someone who has been deeply hurt and is now protecting themselves by adopting a seemingly cruel demeanor. The repetition of 'I know, it drives you mad/crazy' could be a recognition of the impact their behavior has on the ex-partner, but also a declaration that they are no longer willing to be vulnerable.