"Little Lies You're Told" by Joywave is a song that addresses the idea of society's false promises and the pressure to conform to certain expectations. The lyrics suggest that individuals are constantly bombarded with false narratives about success and happiness. The song starts by presenting various societal roles and achievements: lawyer, doctor, dinners with extravagant lobster, musician, painter, and being featured in the media. These are the "little lies" that people are led to believe will bring them fulfillment. However, the chorus reveals a sense of disillusionment. The lyrics state that the lies and false promises have led to a lack of love and acceptance. The individual feels like they are being abandoned, with these lies outside their door, signifying the end of their pursuit of these empty promises. The song then shifts its focus to the idea of material possessions and importance in society. It suggests that individuals are made to believe they deserve expensive things and fame, creating a false sense of entitlement. The repetition of the phrase "don't tell me that" emphasizes the speaker's defiance against these lies and false promises. They reject the notion that materialistic achievements and societal validation are the keys to happiness. The lyrics also emphasize the fact that these lies do not pay the rent, symbolizing the emptiness and lack of substance behind these aspirations. The repetition of this line serves to reinforce the idea that these false promises do not bring true fulfillment or security. Overall, "Little Lies You're Told" serves as a critique of society's shallow values and the pressure to conform to superficial ideals. It encourages listeners to question these falsehoods and find their own path to genuine happiness and fulfillment.
