Pretty Shitty Time

Tegan and Sara's song 'Pretty Shitty Time' delves into the emotional turbulence of feeling lost and disconnected. The repeated line 'I was in a bitter fun house coming in and out of focus' sets the tone for the song, evoking a sense of disorientation and instability. This metaphor of a 'bitter fun house' suggests a place that should be enjoyable but is instead filled with confusion and discomfort, mirroring the singer's internal state.

The lyrics reveal a deep sense of loneliness and the struggle to communicate these feelings. Lines like 'I've never been that good at saying when I need someone, but I need someone' and 'I've never been that good at saying when I'm hurting, but I'm hurting now' highlight the difficulty of expressing vulnerability. This inability to reach out for help exacerbates the singer's isolation, making it harder to navigate their emotional landscape.

The chorus, 'You can find me on the west coast, a pretty shitty time,' captures a moment of geographical and emotional displacement. The west coast, often associated with freedom and new beginnings, contrasts sharply with the 'pretty shitty time' the singer is experiencing. This juxtaposition underscores the theme of not feeling 'good enough' and being 'lost in the tide,' further emphasizing the struggle with self-worth and direction. The song closes with a sense of waiting and uncertainty, reflecting the ongoing battle with personal demons and the hope for something better, even if it's not yet clear what that might be.