Boygenius, the collaborative project of indie rock stars Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus, delivers raw emotion and introspection in their song "Cool About It." Released as part of their self-titled EP in 2018, this track delves deep into themes of unrequited love, longing, and self-deception.
The song opens with a vivid scene set in a dive bar, where the narrator encounters someone special for a game of pool and light-hearted conversation. However, beneath the facade of casual interaction lies a complex web of emotions waiting to unravel. "Met you at the dive bar to go shoot some pool" initiates the narrative, presenting what appears to be a casual meeting that quickly exposes layers of vulnerability.
As the lyrics unfold, it becomes apparent that the narrator grapples with unreciprocated feelings, attempting to navigate the intricacies of emotion while maintaining a semblance of composure. "Ask you easy questions about work and school" illustrates the struggle to appear nonchalant, despite the inner turmoil brewing beneath the surface. The repetition of "I'm trying to be cool about it" underscores the ongoing battle to mask emotions and preserve an air of indifference.
Despite efforts to suppress emotions, the narrator's internal conflict is palpable. "Feelin' like an absolute fool about it" poignantly captures the sense of inadequacy and longing, juxtaposed with a desire for clarity and closure. The line "Wishin' you were kind enough to be cruel about it" embodies the yearning for honesty, even if it means facing rejection.
Throughout the song, there's a poignant acknowledgment of self-deception and the inherent difficulty in moving on from unrequited love. "Tellin' myself I can always do without it / Knowin' that it probably isn't true" encapsulates the internal struggle of convincing oneself to let go, despite the lingering doubts and emotional entanglements.
The narrative takes a reflective turn as the narrator confronts past actions and regrets, delving into themes of guilt and the consequences of impulsive decisions. "Once, I took your medication to know what it's like / And now I have to act like I can't read your mind" reflects on the repercussions of past choices, complicating present interactions and perpetuating a cycle of emotional turmoil.
In the final stanza, there's a bittersweet acknowledgment of the facade maintained to preserve the delicate dynamics of the relationship. "Tellin' you it's nice to see how good you're doing / Even though we know it isn't true" encapsulates the delicate balance between honesty and preserving the fragile veneer of normalcy, even if it means perpetuating falsehoods.
In essence, "Cool About It" by Boygenius serves as a poignant exploration of unrequited love, self-deception, and the intricate complexities of human emotions. Through introspective lyrics and emotive vocals, the song invites listeners to confront their own vulnerabilities and engage in the delicate dance of longing and denial.
