When Dreams Become Reality's Shadow | Pretend | Alex G

Comprehending musical works can be challenging with their beautifully intricate and personal tales deeply embedded in lyrical nuances. Such is the case with 'Pretend' by Alex G. This song, wrapped in elegant melodies, delivers a profound emotional narrative that warrants examination.

'Pretend' is craftily constructed, resonating perfectly with those accustomed to wrestling with contradictory sentiments about a relationship. Written by Alex G, a gifted musician known for his capability to encapsulate intricate and raw emotions into his songs, 'Pretend' represents a spectrum of sentiments.

The central theme revolves around a longing for what can't be attained. The protagonist expresses a yearning for a certain type of romantic relationship, which unfortunately, exists only in his imagination. The character appears to be caught in a love so significant, yet non-reciprocal, that the only consolation would be to 'pretend' that his dreams are real.

The potent phrase, 'The only chance that I have is when I sleep', is compelling, hinting at the layers of emotional anguish. Dreams serve as a haven, the only place where the character experiences the love he craves. This line echoes this fantasy relationship's ephemeral nature and further emphasizes the harsh reality of unrequited love.

On a broader level, Alex G is subtly articulating an existential crisis through his lyrics. The song delves deep into the universal human experience of longing for something unattainable and the inherent sorrow accompanying unfulfilled desires. The compelling lyric, 'I wish I could pretend, believe that in the end, we'll wind up together...', evokes the feeling of hope versus reality, a constant human struggle.

Aimed at a society increasingly fixated on perfection, this song is a poignant reminder that reality doesn't necessarily match our desires. Alex G's lyricism subtly critiques this culture, painting a picture that a 'dream come true' scenario isn’t always plausible.

The exquisite guitar work and the hauntingly beautiful melody provide a sense of melancholy that enhances the lyrics. This fusion of lyrics and instrumentals makes 'Pretend' a masterful and moving ballad, where every line echoes a tinge of longing and sorrow.

In conclusion, 'Pretend' by Alex G is a profound exploration of unfulfilled desires, unrequited love, and existential angst. It resonates deeply with the listener, painting a vivid picture of reality's bitter-sweet nature. This song truly speaks to the doubling of joy and suffering that is the human condition.