Meaning of "New Person, Same Old Mistakes" by Tame Impala

The lyrics of "New Person, Same Old Mistakes" delve into the complexity of personal transformation. The protagonist faces criticism and judgment from those around them who fail to understand their journey. The opening lines reflect the disappointment and disbelief of others towards the protagonist's perceived failures. However, the protagonist confidently asserts that they have discovered something significant and perceive the situation from a different perspective.

The lyrics evoke a sense of internal struggle and self-doubt. The protagonist grapples with their own conflicting desires and past behaviors that they despised. They contemplate the possibility of trading their old self for a new one, questioning if it is too late to make that change. The repetition of "the same old mistakes" emphasizes the pattern the protagonist feels trapped in.

Despite the internal conflicts, the protagonist experiences a newfound sense of love and liberation. They feel like a brand new person but acknowledge that the people around them are unaware of their growth, still associating them with their past actions. The protagonist's declaration of being in love indicates a sense of joy and contentment, even though their journey may not be fully understood or accepted by others.

The lyrics also explore the idea of duality within the protagonist. They admit to having contradictory sides and struggle to bridge the divide between them. The line "two sides of me can't agree" represents the internal conflict and indecision the protagonist faces on their path to change.

The verse "Finally taking flight, I know you don't think it's right" suggests the protagonist's determination to break free from societal expectations and embrace their own truth. They acknowledge that others may perceive their newfound self as fake or wrong, but assert their right to live authentically. The protagonist acknowledges that their journey may soon lead them away from the sight of those who fail to comprehend or support them.

The bridge of the song introduces a new perspective, recognizing that everyone carries their own demons and regrets. It highlights the universality of the protagonist's struggle for self-discovery and growth. The lyrics shed light on the difficulty of accepting one's own flaws and the challenges of confronting one's past mistakes. The repetition of the phrase "you've got your demons and she's got her regrets" suggests a shared human experience of grappling with personal shortcomings.

Ultimately, the lyrics express a yearning for change and an understanding of the complexities inherent in personal growth. The protagonist strives to become a new person but acknowledges the difficulty in discerning the right path. It's a journey of self-awareness and self-acceptance, navigating the tension between the desire for transformation and the fear of repeating old mistakes.