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https://songmeaning.ai/songs/Dua-lipa-new-rules
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The song 'New Rules' by Dua Lipa delves into the narrative of a person trying to move on from a toxic ex-lover. Dua Lipa sets up self-imposed 'rules' to prevent herself from falling back into a cycle of dependency and regret with her ex. The song acts as a mantra for self-empowerment and self-respect, emphasizing the importance of sticking to one's principles to achieve personal growth and emotional independence.
The emotional journey in 'New Rules' by Dua Lipa unfolds as a structured strategy to break free from an ex-lover's hold. The singer begins in a state of self-awareness, recognizing her unhealthy patterns of 'talkin' in my sleep at night' and realizing she has been 'makin' myself crazy.' The verses capture the emotional turmoil of wrestling with the often magnetic, yet detrimental, draw towards someone who doesn't truly care for her well-being. The refrain starkly contrasts the ecstasy of feeling loved with the harsh truth that her love is unreciprocated.
As Dua Lipa progresses to the pre-chorus and chorus, she shifts from awareness to action. The pre-chorus introduces the 'new rules': tangible, assertive steps to avoid being ensnared by her ex's manipulation. Each rule signifies a boundary drawn for self-protection—ignoring phone calls, not allowing him to re-enter her space, and refusing friendship as a guise for closeness. The emotional weight of these actions suggests both strength and vulnerability—strength in setting boundaries and vulnerability in acknowledging the difficulty in maintaining them.
The second verse 'I keep pushin' forwards, but he keeps pullin' me backwards' portrays the exhausting struggle of moving on, juxtaposed with a glimmer of hope as Lipa starts to 'finally see the pattern.' This recognition feels both painful and liberating, highlighting the bittersweet journey of learning from past mistakes. The bridge reaffirms this dedication to self-betterment, emphasizing the need for practice and repetition to make these rules second nature.
Finally, the outro crystallizes the singer's resolution. A repeated imploration not to let him in, not to be his friend, serves as a self-soothing battle cry as much as a declaration of independence. 'You're gettin' over him' echoes as a stark reminder that the journey isn't just about repetition of rules but an internal transformation towards self-empowerment.
"I got new rules, I count 'em"
Dua Lipa is emphasizing the creation of personal boundaries and a mantra of self-discipline to prevent herself from returning to a harmful relationship.
"One, don't pick up the phone"
This rule is about ignoring communication from an ex as a step towards emotional detachment and asserting control over personal interactions.
"Practice makes perfect"
Similar to learning a skill through repetition, Dua Lipa reflects on how maintaining boundaries requires consistent and deliberate effort.
"If you're under him, you ain't gettin' over him"
This line uses a play on words to highlight the challenge of moving forward if one continues to engage in intimate or emotional encounters with an ex.
