Treat You Better: Shawn Mendes Lyrics & Meaning

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the real meaning behind Shawn Mendes' hit song, "Treat You Better"? Well, you've come to the right place! This song isn't just a catchy tune; it's a powerful message about respect, relationships, and recognizing when someone deserves better. Let's dive deep into the lyrics and unpack the heartfelt story Shawn tells through his music. We'll explore each verse, dissect the chorus, and uncover the underlying emotions that make this song so relatable and impactful. So, grab your headphones, get comfy, and let's get started on this lyrical journey!

Unpacking the Lyrics of Treat You Better

"I won't lie to you\nI know he's just not right for you\nAnd you can tell me that I'm wrong but I see it in your face\nYou know I'm right" These opening lines immediately set the scene. Shawn isn't holding back. He's laying his cards on the table, expressing his concern for someone he cares about. It’s not just a casual observation; he sees the unhappiness in her face. It’s a bold move, directly addressing the listener (or the subject of the song) and challenging their current relationship. The directness creates a sense of urgency and honesty, pulling us into the emotional landscape of the song. The lyrics suggest a deep connection, one where he feels comfortable enough to voice his opinions, even if they might be unwelcome. He is not just making assumptions; he is basing his judgment on observable signs of distress. This creates a compelling narrative hook, making the listener want to know why he feels so strongly and what he plans to do about it. The subtle vulnerability in his admission, "I won't lie to you," adds another layer of depth, hinting at his own emotional investment in the situation. Basically, he's saying, "Look, I care about you, and I can't stand seeing you unhappy."

The next set of lyrics, "He's the one that's hurting you\nYou know I'd never hurt you\nI don't know why you're with him when you could be with me\n'Stead I'm just a substitute", drives the point home with even more intensity. The contrast between the current partner and himself is stark. He positions himself as the safe haven, the one who would never inflict pain. The line "I don't know why you're with him when you could be with me" is a raw expression of frustration and longing. It's a question born out of genuine care and perhaps a touch of jealousy. The final line, "'Stead I'm just a substitute," reveals his perceived role in her life – someone she turns to when she needs comfort, but not the one she chooses to be with. This is a painful realization, highlighting the unrequited nature of his feelings. He's not just an observer; he's actively involved in her life, offering support and care, yet he remains on the sidelines. This dynamic creates a compelling tension, leaving the listener wondering if she will ever recognize his true worth and reciprocate his feelings. The use of the word "substitute" also implies a lack of commitment on her part, suggesting that she may be settling for less than she deserves. It’s a poignant portrayal of unrequited love and the frustration of being relegated to the role of a backup option.

And then comes the chorus, the heart of the song: "I know I can treat you better than he can\nAnd any girl like you deserves a gentleman\nTell me why are we wasting time\nOn all your wasted crime\nWhen you should be with me instead\nI know I can treat you better\nBetter than he can". This is the core message, repeated for emphasis and impact. He believes he can offer her a better relationship, one filled with respect and genuine care. The line "any girl like you deserves a gentleman" is a statement of her worth, suggesting that she deserves to be treated with kindness and consideration. The question "Tell me why are we wasting time" is a plea for her to recognize the potential for happiness with him. The phrase "wasted crime" is a bit ambiguous, but it likely refers to the emotional damage she's enduring in her current relationship. He sees her suffering as a waste, a needless source of pain that could be avoided if she chose him instead. The repetition of "I know I can treat you better" reinforces his unwavering belief in his ability to provide her with a more fulfilling relationship. It’s a powerful declaration of his intentions and a persuasive argument for her to reconsider her choices. The chorus is not just a catchy hook; it's a heartfelt promise and a desperate attempt to convince her that she deserves better.

The second verse continues the narrative: "I see it in your eyes, you just want out\nHoldin' hands with him is like holdin' onto a doubt\nBaby, I'm right here, I'm tryna pull you through\nYou just gotta let me into". He sees her desire to escape the relationship, recognizing the unhappiness that she may be trying to hide. The metaphor of "holdin' hands with him is like holdin' onto a doubt" is particularly evocative, suggesting that the relationship is built on uncertainty and insecurity. He positions himself as her rescuer, someone who can "pull you through" the difficult situation. The line "You just gotta let me into" is a plea for her to trust him and allow him to help. It suggests that she may be hesitant to open up or to leave the relationship, perhaps due to fear or obligation. He’s not just offering a solution; he’s asking for her permission to intervene. This highlights the importance of her agency in the situation and acknowledges that he cannot force her to leave. He needs her to be willing to accept his help and to trust that he has her best interests at heart. The verse is a compelling blend of empathy and encouragement, urging her to take a leap of faith and embrace the possibility of a better future.

The bridge offers a moment of reflection: "Wouldn't gotta hurt you\nNo, I wouldn't do you wrong\n'Cause I know how it feels\n'Cause I been there before\nEverybody hurts\nEverybody cries\nEverybody sees the world through darkened eyes\nI know how it feels to be in your situation\nWouldn't wanna be the one who did that to you no". This section provides insight into his motivations. He wouldn't want to inflict pain on her because he understands what it feels like to be hurt. The lines "Everybody hurts, Everybody cries, Everybody sees the world through darkened eyes" are universal truths, acknowledging that everyone experiences pain and suffering at some point in their lives. He’s not just offering empty promises; he’s speaking from a place of empathy and understanding. He recognizes her pain because he has experienced similar emotions himself. This shared understanding creates a deeper connection between them and strengthens his credibility as someone who can offer genuine support. The final lines, "Wouldn't wanna be the one who did that to you no," reiterate his commitment to protecting her from harm. He is not just trying to win her over; he genuinely cares about her well-being and wants to ensure that she is happy and safe. The bridge is a powerful expression of empathy and compassion, revealing the depth of his feelings and his unwavering commitment to her happiness.

The Lasting Impact of Treat You Better

So, there you have it! "Treat You Better" is more than just a catchy pop song. It's a heartfelt plea for respect, a recognition of worth, and a promise of a better future. Shawn Mendes masterfully captures the emotions of longing, frustration, and genuine care in this powerful anthem. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt unappreciated or has witnessed someone they care about being mistreated. The song's message is simple yet profound: everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, respect, and love. And sometimes, recognizing that you deserve better is the first step towards finding true happiness. The song serves as a reminder to value yourself and to seek out relationships that are built on mutual respect and genuine affection. It's a call to action, encouraging listeners to stand up for themselves and to demand the treatment they deserve. "Treat You Better" has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the music world, inspiring countless individuals to re-evaluate their relationships and to prioritize their own well-being. And that, my friends, is the true power of music!