Meaning and Lyrics of Red Flags by Mimi Webb

“Red Flags” by Mimi Webb is a poignant song that delves into the complexities of a toxic relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who continuously overlooks warning signs, or red flags, in their partner’s behavior, despite knowing deep down that the relationship is not healthy.

In the first verse, the protagonist narrates how from the beginning, their partner made it clear they were not looking for a committed relationship. However, the presence of their ex’s belongings around the house reveals a contradictory situation. This juxtaposition sets the tone for the rest of the song, hinting at underlying issues and a lack of honesty in the relationship.

The pre-chorus reflects the internal conflict within the protagonist. They acknowledge that their friends disapprove of the relationship and that there are numerous reasons they should leave. The repetition of “issues” highlights the multitude of problems, indicating a pattern of negative behavior that the protagonist is struggling to confront.

Moving to the chorus, the protagonist admits to seeing the warning signs, represented by the metaphor of red flags, but despite this awareness, they keep returning to the relationship. The emotional turmoil is palpable as the protagonist confesses to blaming themselves for knowing the situation is bad yet being unable to break free. The repetition of lines further emphasizes the internal battle, portraying a cycle of recognizing the danger but being unable to resist the attraction and the physical intimacy that the partner offers.

In the second verse, the protagonist reveals another layer of complexity in the relationship, such as their partner’s reluctance to move away from their parents’ home. The protagonist casually pays for dinner, suggesting a dynamic where they are constantly accommodating their partner, even when it involves financial implications. This dependency adds to the portrayal of an unbalanced relationship with blurred boundaries.

The outro leaves the song on a bittersweet note, with the repetition of “red flags” serving as a haunting reminder of the warning signs that were ignored. The protagonist’s admission that they keep on running through these flags encapsulates their ongoing struggle and inability to break free from the toxic cycle.

Overall, “Red Flags” by Mimi Webb captures the emotional turmoil, confusion, and self-blame that can accompany being in a toxic relationship. Through its evocative lyrics and powerful delivery, the song resonates with anyone who has found themselves caught in a pattern of returning to a destructive relationship despite knowing the harm it causes.