Song Meaning

Hanna Pakarinen’s "Make Believe" plunges headfirst into the psychological quicksand of denial, a space where harsh realities are softened by self-deception. The song's core revolves around the seductive yet ultimately destructive power of illusion. Pakarinen doesn't just offer escapism; she dissects its appeal, particularly in the face of impending emotional collapse. The opening lines, "What you see is what you never get / Turn the table and stab yourself instead," paint a stark picture of frustration and self-inflicted pain born from unmet expectations. The lyrics suggest a world where striving and fighting only lead to further disillusionment, hinting at a situation where the protagonist is clinging to a relationship or belief system that is fundamentally flawed. The recurring phrase "Make believe when you close your eyes" acts as both a plea and a condemnation. It's an invitation to retreat into fantasy, underscored by the desperate yearning in the parenthetical lines, "Say that you're mine tonight / Tell me one more time." The repetition amplifies the sense of desperation, highlighting the fragile nature of the illusion being maintained. The darkness obscuring the stars symbolizes lost hope and fading memories, yet the lyrics also offer a glimmer of resilience: "It's you that keep on searching for / Another way to keep holding on." This internal struggle between succumbing to despair and fighting for something, anything, is central to the song's emotional weight. Ultimately, "Make Believe" is a complex exploration of human vulnerability and the lengths we go to protect ourselves from pain. Pakarinen seems to suggest that while escapism might offer temporary solace, true healing lies in confronting reality, however harsh it may be. The final lines, "But oh, don't let go, it's never too late," inject a dose of cautious optimism, implying that even in the darkest of times, the possibility of redemption remains if one can find the strength to break free from the cycle of self-deception. The song explores the allure and danger of fantasy, suggesting that while "make believe" can be a temporary shield, it ultimately hinders genuine connection and self-discovery.