Reality
Catch Fire Lyrics

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I know that I'm not perfect and I know I don't deserve it
But I'm sure from what I've heard that he's a prick and he's not worth it
I've been where you are and I know it's not far
From breaking down and drowning as I float across the surface

If it's a dream then you'll come back to me
But it ain't this is reality

We've tried this a million times but I miss
The way you used to ask me "Do you like how this dress fits?"
I've done you no harm
Still you're wrapped in his arms
Now I've broken down
I'm drowning and I've sunk beneath the surface

Help me, please help me remember

If one day I don't recognize your face, help me, please help me remember
Help me, please help me remember

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Catch Fire's song "Reality" are reflective of the struggles of maintaining a relationship and dealing with heartbreak. The first two lines acknowledge the singer's flaws and imperfect past but asserts that the partner they are singing to deserves better. The next few lines reveal that the singer understands what it's like to be in their partner's situation because they have also experienced a similar heartbreak, and the pain that comes along with it.

The chorus of the song, "If it's a dream then you'll come back to me, But it ain't this is reality," captures the contrast between the hope and reality of the situation. The singer seems to be in a state of denial, hoping that their partner's leaving is only temporary and that they'll be back soon. However, the reality is the opposite, and the pain is permanent. The next verse of the song reveals more of the singer's regrets and failed attempts to mend the relationship, and here they express their desire to go back to the way things used to be.

The bridge of the song is a plea to the partner, asking for help to remember if one day the singer doesn't recognize their face. The song overall portrays the desperation of a person's last ditch effort to save a relationship and deal with the pain of knowing that it's over.

Line by Line Meaning

I know that I'm not perfect and I know I don't deserve it
I understand that I'm not flawless and don't merit the best things in life.

But I'm sure from what I've heard that he's a prick and he's not worth it
I've heard enough about him to believe he's terrible and not deserving of you.

I've been where you are and I know it's not far from breaking down and drowning as I float across the surface
I comprehend your situation and can relate to how close you are to breaking down and losing control.

If it's a dream then you'll come back to me. But it ain't this is reality
If this was a dream, you would come back to me, but since it's real, you won't.

We've tried this a million times but I miss the way you used to ask me 'Do you like how this dress fits?'
We've attempted this before, but I miss the way you made me feel loved by asking me for my opinion.

I've done you no harm, still, you're wrapped in his arms. Now I've broken down, I'm drowning, and I've sunk beneath the surface
I haven't hurt you, yet you're still with him, leaving me hurt, drowning, and sinking beneath the surface.

Help me, please help me remember. If one day I don't recognize your face, help me, please help me remember
Assist me in recalling memories of us. If one day I lose my memory, help me remember our story.

Contributed by Xavier K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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