Released: 2021
Olivia Rodrigo’s “favorite crime” dives deep into the emotional aftermath of a toxic relationship. The song explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and regret, wrapped in a narrative where love feels like a crime. It’s a raw and honest portrayal of how love can sometimes lead us to make questionable choices.
The song kicks off with Rodrigo admitting to loving someone so intensely that she allowed herself to be mistreated. She describes herself as a ‘willing accomplice,’ indicating she was fully aware of the unhealthy dynamics but still chose to stay. The imagery of ‘four hands bloody’ suggests that both parties are guilty in the relationship’s downfall, emphasizing shared responsibility.
In the chorus, Rodrigo reflects on the things she did just to claim the person as hers. She hopes she was their ‘favorite crime,’ implying that their relationship was destructive yet memorable. The use of ‘alibi’ and ‘crossed the line’ paints a picture of deceit and betrayal, where she stood by them despite their wrongdoings.
As the song progresses, Rodrigo reveals the bittersweet nature of their relationship. She acknowledges the damage they caused together, yet there’s a sense of nostalgia as she reminisces about their shared chaos. The line ‘I say that I hate you with a smile on my face’ captures the complexity of emotions, where love and hate coexist.
The song wraps up with a repetition of the phrase ‘your favorite crime,’ reinforcing the idea that despite the pain, the relationship holds a significant place in her heart. Rodrigo’s delivery is both vulnerable and powerful, capturing the essence of young love’s tumultuous and often irrational nature.
