The song "When I Pretend" by Jordan Pruitt explores themes of nostalgia, longing, and heartbreak. The lyrics convey the singer's struggle to let go of memories and emotions associated with someone from her past. The song begins with the singer expressing how thoughts of this person constantly occupy her mind, but she wants to forget the images and move on. She hides her true feelings by putting on a happy face, but nobody sees through her facade. The singer admits that she believed every word this person said, never anticipating that it would lead to regret. As she looks at them now, she questions who they have become, feeling lost and trapped in her emotions. The chorus reflects on the intensity of the connection they once shared. The singer still gets butterflies and is transported back to those moments whenever she thinks about talking to this person all night. She vividly remembers the smile they used to have, even if it was only temporary or fleeting. However, she acknowledges that these moments only exist in her imagination or when she pretends things are the way they used to be. In the second verse, the singer imagines a world where things were different and she could create her ideal reality. She pictures herself standing alone, knowing that the connection they shared was real, even if they claim they don't need it anymore. Despite their denial, the singer doesn't believe them. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the singer's longing for the past and the bittersweetness of remembering their connection, but only through pretending. The bridge signifies the singer's contentment in her current state, as she is where she wants to be and asks not to be woken from this dream. However, she still can't help but remember the way this person used to smile, even if it was for a short time. In conclusion, "When I Pretend" tells a story of a person grappling with memories of a past love. They long for the deep connection and happiness they once shared but acknowledge that it can only exist in their imagination or when they pretend. The song captures the complex emotions and longing that can come from a broken relationship.
