Released: 2020
“Angels Like You” by Miley Cyrus is a reflective ballad that dives deep into themes of self-awareness and the realization of being the “wrong” person for someone else. It’s a heartfelt confession about the destructive nature of the narrator’s love and the pain it brings to both parties involved.
The song kicks off with a vivid image of “flowers in hand,” setting a romantic scene. However, the romance is tainted by a sense of detachment, as the person doesn’t call her by name, only “baby.” This indicates a lack of true connection or identity in the relationship. The line “The more that you give, the less that I need” suggests a one-sided dynamic where the narrator feels overwhelmed by the partner’s affection, hinting at an imbalance in their emotional needs.
As the chorus rolls in, Cyrus admits that she knows the person is “wrong” for her, yet there’s a sense of inevitability about the relationship’s end. The phrase “misery loves company” is a classic saying that implies people who are unhappy may find solace in dragging others down with them. Here, it’s a self-aware acknowledgment of the narrator’s tendency to bring others down.
The recurring line “It’s not your fault I ruin everything” is a stark admission of self-blame. Cyrus acknowledges her own flaws and the inability to meet her partner’s needs, reinforcing the idea that “angels like you can’t fly down hell with me.” This metaphor paints the partner as pure and good, contrasting with the narrator’s self-perceived negativity.
In the second verse, there’s a bittersweet goodbye as she tells her partner to “take off your clothes, pretend that it’s fine.” This line suggests a final attempt to hold onto the physical aspect of the relationship, even when they both know it’s over. The mention of her mother saying “you don’t look happy” adds another layer, indicating outside perspectives noticing the strain the relationship has caused.
Overall, “Angels Like You” is a raw and honest portrayal of recognizing one’s own toxic traits and the impact they have on a relationship. It’s a poignant reminder that sometimes love isn’t enough to overcome personal demons, and letting go is the only way to prevent further harm.
