Meaning of "Play For Today" by The Cure

"Play For Today" is a song that rebels against societal expectations and norms. The lyrics suggest a disregard for doing what is considered right or fair, emphasizing instead the importance of personal feelings and desires. The narrator doesn't care about being morally justified; they simply act on their own. This can be interpreted as a rejection of conformity and societal pressure.

The song also challenges the idea of being a lover who deserves rewards. The narrator refuses to act in a way that pleases others or to adhere to the traditional roles of a lover. They choose to wait for something to happen rather than actively seeking connection or validation. This represents a willingness to embrace uncertainty and reject the idea that love or rewards should be earned through specific actions or behaviors.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of truth. The narrator acknowledges that some lines may not be the whole truth but are convenient for the given situation. This hints at the idea of subjective truth or the ability to manipulate information for personal gain. By calling the narrator a liar, the other person in the song is reinforcing the idea of a strict adherence to truth, while the narrator challenges this expectation.

Overall, "Play For Today" can be seen as a commentary on the performative nature of life. The song suggests that everyone has a role to play and that individual desires and emotions should take precedence over societal expectations. It encourages the listener to question societal norms and expectations, and embrace their own personal truth.