Meaning of "We Build Then We Break" by The Fray

"We Build Then We Break" by The Fray dives deep into the theme of betrayal and the consequences it can have on relationships. The opening lines reveal that the narrator has heard from someone else about the actions of the person they are addressing. Although the narrator doesn't personally know this person, they trust the person who shared the information. This shows the power of trust and the willingness to accept others' experiences without direct involvement.

"They will be 3 steps behind, You will not know what's got you" highlights the narrator's determination to keep a close eye on the person, suggesting they will always be one step ahead and ready to confront any future actions. The repetition of "Oh so you're sorry now" emphasizes the disbelief and mistrust the narrator feels towards the apology, suggesting that it is too little, too late to repair the damage caused.

The line "All is not well, it's not ended" conveys the lingering effects of the betrayal. It implies that even though the incident may be in the past, the repercussions still haunt both the victim and the person who committed the betrayal. This suggests that true healing and closure have not yet been achieved.

The image of holding one's breath until it's over creates a sense of suspense and anticipation, implying a desire for resolution. The line "There's something left underwater" introduces the idea that there are hidden truths or unspoken secrets still lingering beneath the surface. This suggests that there is more to the story than what has been revealed so far, indicating a deeper complexity to the situation.

Overall, "We Build Then We Break" captures the painful aftermath of betrayal and the struggle to fully trust and forgive. It explores the dynamics of relationships and the long-lasting impact of actions and secrets. The lyrics offer a glimpse into the complexities of human connection and the challenges of moving forward after betrayal.