Meaning of "Real Life" by The Weeknd

The lyrics of "Real Life" by The Weeknd delve into themes of self-destructive behavior, fear of commitment, and accepting the consequences of one's actions. The protagonist acknowledges that he was not made for love and that his heart does not stay with one person. He has never learned how to be anything else. His mother warns him about his destructive behavior, recognizing that it will eventually ruin him. However, the protagonist seems to be trapped in a cycle of pushing away the women who love him.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the harsh realities of the protagonist's life. The repetition of "real life" underscores the authenticity of the struggles he faces. It highlights the disconnect between his experiences and the sentiments shared by others. The line "Heaven only lets a few in" suggests that the protagonist feels unworthy of love and happiness. He believes it is too late for him to choose a different path.

The lyrics also touch on the idea that love is a risk worth taking. However, the protagonist rejects this notion, claiming that he has never been the type of person to embrace love and commitment. He sees himself as destructive and believes that he is better off alone. The acceptance of his fate and the acknowledgement that he is not worth the misery demonstrated in the lines "Don't waste precious tears on me, I'm not worth the misery, I'm better off when I'm alone."

Overall, the lyrics of "Real Life" express the protagonist's struggles with self-destructive behavior, fear of commitment, and acceptance of his perceived unworthiness of love and happiness. It showcases his inability to change and his resignation to living a solitary life.