My Friends Over You

New Found Glory's song 'My Friends Over You' delves into the emotional turmoil of prioritizing friendships over a romantic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man who is caught in a cycle of routine and emotional conflict. He acknowledges the intoxicating allure of his partner's affection but admits that he never intended to lead her on. This admission sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the struggle between maintaining a romantic relationship and staying true to his friendships.

The chorus, 'You were everything I wanted, but I just can't finish what I've started,' highlights the protagonist's internal conflict. He recognizes the value and potential of the romantic relationship but feels unable to commit fully. The metaphor of 'no room left here on my back' suggests that he is already burdened by past experiences and emotional baggage, making it difficult for him to carry the weight of a new relationship. Despite his partner's assurances of loyalty, he ultimately decides to prioritize his friendships, as indicated by the repeated line, 'I still pick my friends over you.'

The song also touches on themes of communication and the facade of maintaining a relationship for appearances. Lines like 'It's all right to pretend that we still talk, it's just for show, isn't it?' reveal the superficial nature of their interactions. The protagonist's plea for honesty and transparency, 'Please tell me everything that you think that I should know,' underscores his desire for clarity and closure. Ultimately, 'My Friends Over You' captures the bittersweet reality of choosing platonic bonds over romantic entanglements, reflecting the complexities of young love and friendship.