Meaning of "Rise & Fall, Curtain Call" by This Time Next Year

The lyrics of "Rise & Fall, Curtain Call" explore themes of disappointment, betrayal, and ultimately, resilience. The singer expresses feelings of being let down by someone who never truly had their back, highlighting the importance of authenticity in relationships. The repeated line "Pretending to know what I've been through" emphasizes the frustration of dealing with individuals who feign understanding but lack sincerity. The concept of rise and fall, symbolized by a curtain call, suggests the cyclical nature of relationships and the need to accept endings as part of the journey. The imagery of old worn shoes and a broken record conveys a sense of weariness and repetition in dealing with unreliable people. Overall, the song conveys a message of moving on from toxic relationships and finding strength in one's own resilience.