Meaning of "in my head" by Ariana Grande

The song delves into the idea of idealization and the dangers of placing someone on a pedestal. The narrator paints a picture of their perception of the person they love, believing that they know them well. However, they soon realize that their imagination is too creative, seeing an angel instead of a demon. They have created a version of this person in their mind that doesn't align with reality. The lyrics highlight the disappointment and heartbreak when this illusion is shattered. There is a sense of longing for something to hold onto, something to believe in. The narrator thought that this person was the one, but in reality, it was all in their head. The repetition of the phrase "it was all in my head" emphasizes the extent to which the narrator has been living in a fantasy. They acknowledge that they played a role in the creation of this idealized version of the person, realizing that they "invented" them. There is a feeling of self-blame and introspection, as they come to terms with the fact that they saw the potential in this person without considering their actual qualities or credentials. The song ultimately invites reflection on how our perceptions and expectations can distort our understanding of others, often leading to disappointment.