Repeat After Me (Interlude)

The Weeknd's "Repeat After Me (Interlude)" is a hauntingly introspective piece that delves into the complexities of love, desire, and self-deception. The lyrics suggest a narrative where the singer is addressing someone who is in a relationship with another person, yet still harbors feelings for the singer. The repetition of the phrase "You don't love him" serves as a hypnotic mantra, attempting to convince the listener of their true feelings, or perhaps to convince the singer himself. The Weeknd's music often explores themes of love, lust, and the darker sides of relationships, and this song is no exception.

The interlude's somber tone is accentuated by the background whispers, which mention a devil on the shoulder and darkness, implying a sense of internal conflict and temptation. These elements suggest that the song is not just about convincing someone else of their feelings, but also about the singer's own struggle with accepting a love that may not be reciprocated. The Weeknd's use of the phrase "repeat after me" could be seen as an attempt to control the narrative and the emotions involved, or as a way to find solace in the echo of unfulfilled desires.

The song also touches on the idea of physical intimacy without emotional connection, as the lyrics dismiss the act of being with someone else as meaningless if the emotional attachment is to another. This perspective on relationships and intimacy reflects a common theme in The Weeknd's music, where physical pleasure is often depicted as a hollow substitute for genuine emotional bonds. The interlude, with its hypnotic and repetitive nature, leaves listeners with a sense of unresolved tension and the melancholy of longing.