Thought, the day you disappeared, that it was over
Didn’t even hear you leavin’
Saw you with someone and thought that it was closure
But you still tell me that you need me
Baby, why?
Tell me, why can’t you just make up your mind?
Quit messin’ with my head
You can’t say you hate me, then call me when you’re hurt
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no, that’s not how this works
You can’t walk away, then come back to what we were
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no
No, no, no, no, oh, no, no, no, no
Baby, that’s not how this works, no, that’s not how this works, oh
Stop reminding me of when we said forever
I know exactly what you’re doing
When you say you need to drop off all my sweaters
It’s just one of your excuses
Baby, why?
Tell me, why can’t you just make up your mind?
Quit messin’ with my head
You can’t say you hate me, then call me when you’re hurt
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no, that’s not how this works
You can’t walk away, then come back to what we were
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no
Don’t say that you’re in love with me (Say that you’re in love)
‘Cause I know it’s not what you mean
You can’t say you hate me, then call me when you’re hurt
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no, that’s not how this works
You can’t walk away, then come back to what we were
Baby, you know that’s not how this works, no
No, no, no, no, oh, no, no, no, no
Baby, that’s not how this works, no, that’s not how this works, oh
No, no, no, no, oh, no, no, no, no
Baby, that’s not how this works
Unraveling Emotional Boundaries
“That’s Not How This Works” by Charlie Puth explores the anguish and confusion that arise when relational boundaries are blurred. The lyrics capture the emotional chaos of being caught in a cycle of mixed signals—when an ex-lover can’t fully let go, yet refuses to commit. Puth’s raw delivery highlights the frustration of dealing with someone who wants the comfort of a past relationship without the responsibility, making the song relatable for anyone who’s struggled with letting go.
The Pain of Mixed Signals
The song poignantly illustrates the back-and-forth nature of breakups, where words like “hate” and sudden calls for comfort coexist. Puth questions the sincerity behind gestures and words, pointing out the unfairness of expecting emotional support without genuine commitment. His repeated refrain, “that’s not how this works,” serves as a powerful reminder of the need for healthy boundaries and honesty in relationships.
Song Credits
- Artist: Charlie Puth
- Songwriters: Charlie Puth, Dan Smyers, Ashley Gorley
- Release Year: 2023
- Label: Atlantic Records