The Everly Brothers' song "Facts of Life" explores the theme of denial and the inability to face the truth after a breakup or loss. The lyrics depict a person who is heartbroken and unable to accept the reality that their loved one no longer loves them. The song suggests that the individual chooses to pretend that the relationship is still intact, rather than confronting the pain and sorrow. The lyrics encourage the listener to close their eyes and imagine that their former partner still loves them, but acknowledges that the tears will eventually come and advises them to lie to themselves. The song suggests that instead of facing the pain and acknowledging the loss, it is easier to turn away from it and pretend that everything is still as it used to be. The chorus emphasizes the idea of pretending and acting in order to avoid the truth. It advises the listener to walk the floor and imagine their partner by their side, to put on an act and pretend that they never lost them. The lyrics imply that being young can make it harder to face the harsh reality and suggest that denial can be a defense mechanism for the young and inexperienced. The song also encourages the listener to sit by themselves and pretend not to be lonely, to lie and ignore the truth. It implies that the truth does not matter in this moment and that it is easier to deceive oneself by pretending not to need or want the former partner. Overall, "Facts of Life" portrays the struggle of denial and the avoidance of facing the truth after a breakup. It suggests that pretending and lying to oneself may provide temporary relief from the pain, but ultimately, the truth will need to be confronted.
