Meaning of Stay done by Tate McRae (the story behind)

In "Stay Done" by Tate McRae, the lyrics capture the tumultuous nature of a relationship that seems impossible to sever. The song explores the contradictory feelings of love and frustration, as well as the struggle to break free from a toxic cycle.

The opening lines convey the paradoxical emotions, describing how someone can be perceived as "dead to most" yet still elicit a sense of awe and admiration. The acknowledgment that breaking something is necessary to realize rock-bottom reflects the destructive nature of the relationship.

The chorus becomes a self-admission of the difficulty in ending the relationship. Despite the awareness that a breakup is necessary, the singer confesses, "I know we should break up, but I just can't stay done with you." The internal conflict is further expressed through the juxtaposition of being best friends and enemies, highlighting the complexity of emotions.

The verses delve into the internal struggle, expressing the singer's frustration at trying to move on while simultaneously reaching out to the person they are trying to avoid. The reference to a one-way street symbolizes the difficulty of detaching from the relationship.

The lyrics also touch upon moral conflicts and the abnormality of certain actions, adding layers to the complexity of the relationship. Despite recognizing the need to part ways, the singer finds it challenging to break free, leading to the repetition of the phrase "I just can't stay done with you."

In the final lines, the singer acknowledges sounding "so dumb" for being unable to sever ties. This admission encapsulates the vulnerability and emotional entanglement that often accompany difficult breakups.

"Stay Done" paints a vivid picture of the internal struggles and contradictions within a relationship that refuses to end. It delves into the challenging dynamics of love and separation, providing a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities involved in letting go.