Meaning of "Software Upgrade" by Poppy

The overall meaning of "Software Upgrade" revolves around the theme of dissatisfaction with a partner's inability to meet the narrator's needs and desires. The use of computer-related imagery and language throughout the song creates a metaphorical comparison between the partner and a faulty computer system in need of an upgrade.

The narrator begins by stating that their partner was never meant for them, highlighting the fundamental incompatibilities between them. The partner's weaknesses are acknowledged, and the narrator expresses that they have to constantly deal with them by restarting the partner "every single day." This implies that the partner's flaws are persistent and require repeated attempts to rectify, mirroring the frustrating experience of dealing with a malfunctioning computer system.

The repeated phrase "I turn you off, I turn you on" serves as a metaphorical representation of the narrator's control over their partner's actions. It symbolizes their power to manipulate and reset the partner's behavior, emphasizing a sense of dominance and the partner's lack of agency. The partner's inability to function properly, running "ten minutes too late," further contributes to their inadequacy, as it suggests a consistent failure to meet expectations or be on time.

The lyrics also address the partner's lack of originality and individuality. The partner is depicted as only saying what they are programmed to say, suggesting an absence of genuine emotion or independent thought. This lack of authenticity is further underscored by the partner's failure to perform basic tasks such as making food or being in the mood, highlighting their inability to meet the narrator's needs on a basic human level.

The addition of the question "tell me, are you gay?" adds an element of confusion and frustration to the narrator's perspective. It implies that the partner's lack of fulfillment or engagement may extend beyond their compatibility issues, suggesting a potential questioning of their sexual orientation or preference.

Overall, "Software Upgrade" conveys a sense of disappointment and frustration with a partner who fails to fulfill the narrator's desires, lacks originality, and struggles to meet basic expectations. The use of computer-related imagery helps to illustrate this dissatisfaction and reinforces the idea that the partner is in need of improvement or reprogramming to meet the narrator's standards.