Meaning of "Cheap Affairs" by Write This Down

The lyrics of "Cheap Affairs" delve into the internal struggle of someone caught in a cycle of infidelity and deceit. The protagonist acknowledges their harmful actions and the impact on their relationship, expressing feelings of remorse and instability. The repeated mention of being a mess, feeling crazy, and being out of control depicts a sense of chaotic desperation. The yearning to escape through getting lost and burning up all the maps symbolizes a desire to break free from the constraints of their current situation. However, the inability to do so is evident in the continuous self-destructive behavior and inability to fully commit to ending the affairs. The protagonist's acknowledgment that their partner is better off alone shows a level of awareness, yet their struggles with self-control and impulsivity make it difficult to enact meaningful change. The underlying theme of seeking freedom but being trapped in damaging patterns adds depth to the emotional complexity of the song.