Meaning of "Personal" by Palisades
The lyrics of "Personal" delve into the theme of hypocrisy and the negative effects of spreading rumors and misinformation. The song starts by addressing someone who loves to gossip and spread false information, believing that they have everything figured out. The use of phrases like "fake it till you make it" and "spitting all the same shit out" suggests that this person is not genuine but rather puts on a facade to be seen and heard. However, the line "but everyone knows so" indicates that their true nature is evident to others.
The chorus emphasizes the personal impact of this person's actions on the narrator. They call out the individual for their attempts to make everything personal and fictional. The web metaphor symbolizes the tangled web of lies and deceit that this person has created around them. The narrator sees through their facade and finds it pitiful, highlighting the emptiness of their actions.
The second verse portrays this person as a "headcase" and delusional. They are described as vain and willing to sell out just to be seen. The line "you've got a habit of burning all your bridges down" suggests that their actions have had consequences and they have lost the trust and support of others. Despite their attempts to assert themselves on a "made-up throne," the narrator asserts that everyone sees through their act.
In the bridge, the lyrics explore the repercussions of the person's behavior. They have wasted opportunities and crumble under pressure, yet they blame others for the things they break. The final line of the bridge, "you get told that everyone knows so," emphasizes that their actions are well-known and their falsehoods are exposed.
The chorus is repeated at the end, highlighting the personal nature of the narrator's response to the person's actions. The mention of "spreading it all around" and the repeated statement of taking it personally reinforces the impact this person's behavior has on the narrator.
Overall, "Personal" speaks to the frustration and disillusionment caused by someone who spreads rumors, lies, and misinformation. The lyrics critique the hypocrisy and emptiness of their actions while highlighting the personal impact it has on the narrator.