Meaning of "Never Do That" by Pretenders

The lyrics of "Never Do That" by the Pretenders convey a mix of longing, desperation, and self-awareness. The speaker is willing to go to great lengths, even sacrificing their own voice or happiness, in order to please the other person and keep them in their life. However, there is also a sense of self-preservation and a realization of personal boundaries. The speaker acknowledges that there are certain things they simply wouldn't do to maintain the relationship or gain approval. This internal conflict between the desire to please and the need to maintain self-respect creates a tension throughout the song. The reference to being a "master of illusion" suggests manipulation and deceit, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the struggle to navigate emotions and expectations.