Meaning of "Tell Me a Lie" by The Fratellis

The lyrics of "Tell Me a Lie" convey a sense of defiance and rebellion against societal norms and expectations. The narrator feels misunderstood and judged for their actions, but instead of conforming or trying to explain themselves, they choose to embrace the identity of being a liar. This can be seen as a metaphor for refusing to adhere to societal standards and choosing to be true to oneself, even if it means being perceived as deceitful or dishonest by others. The repeated lines about writing numbers on telephone bills and being cruel signify a sense of nihilism and rebellion against social structures and expectations. The narrator finds liberation in being perceived as a liar and being unapologetically themselves, rather than conforming to societal expectations. Overall, the song conveys a message of individuality, defiance, and self-acceptance in the face of judgment and misunderstanding.