Meaning of "How We'd Look On Paper" by The Main Drag

"How We'd Look On Paper" delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the aftermath of disappointments and betrayals. The opening lines, "Sorry eyes and it's not like me, Canonized like frozen faces on the walls," set the tone for a reflective piece that grapples with personal failings and the inherent difficulty of forgiveness. The idea of being "canonized like frozen faces" suggests a sense of being immortalized in one's mistakes, unable to escape them. The repeated phrases throughout the song emphasize a cyclical struggle with guilt and the desire for redemption. The lyrics also touch on the idea of perception, how one may present themselves versus the reality of their actions, and the disconnect between the two. Lines like "Get your mind back into hell where it belongs" and "You were never so ambitious anyway" hint at self-doubt and a struggle with self-worth. Overall, the song speaks to the universal experience of trying to reconcile past mistakes, change for the better, and ultimately come to terms with one's flaws.