Meaning of "Jealousy" by Liz Phair

The lyrics of "Jealousy" delve into the complex and often tumultuous emotions experienced in romantic relationships when confronted with a partner's past. The speaker grapples with feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, imagining their partner's previous experiences in vivid detail and feeling jealous of the intimacy shared with others. The references to ex-girlfriends, secret positions, and past life before the speaker all highlight a sense of competition and comparison that breeds jealousy. The repeated refrain of "I can't believe you had a life before me" underscores the speaker's struggle to come to terms with their partner's past and the fear of not measuring up to those previous experiences. Ultimately, the lyrics capture the vulnerable and raw emotions of jealousy that can arise in relationships, highlighting the importance of communication and trust in overcoming such feelings.