Meaning of "Charm School" by Fatherson

The lyrics of "Charm School" delve into the theme of feeling unappreciated and unnoticed in a relationship. The narrator expresses their desire to be kept in the picture and loved, but it seems that their partner does not reciprocate these feelings. The line "Keep me in the picture you never love me back" suggests that the narrator feels like an outsider, someone who is not truly included or valued in the relationship. This lack of love and emotional connection is further emphasized by the line "I don't have a punch line that I can hide behind," indicating that the narrator does not have any clever remarks or defenses to protect themselves from the pain they are experiencing.

The lyrics also touch on the frustration of feeling unnoticed and overlooked. The line "My face is a picture I never understood" implies that the narrator feels misunderstood and unseen. They feel like they are constantly hitting red lights, encountering obstacles and barriers that prevent them from progressing in the relationship. The mention of "the same three fucking cliches" could symbolize the repetitive, unoriginal nature of their interactions, indicating that there is a lack of depth and meaningful communication.

The chorus, with the repeated phrase "Keep it to yourself, watch what all your friends do, find a way to live outside," suggests that the narrator is urging their partner to keep their relationship private and not compare it to others. They want their partner to find a way to live outside societal expectations and focus on the unique dynamics of their own relationship.

Overall, "Charm School" highlights the feelings of being unloved, unnoticed, and unappreciated in a relationship. The narrator yearns for genuine love, understanding, and recognition. They are tired of being relegated to the sidelines and living in a charm school where appearances and superficiality take precedence over emotional connection.