Shawn Mendes – “Treat You Better” Lyrics Meaning

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Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

“Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes is a heartfelt plea from a friend who believes he can offer more love and respect to a girl who’s in a troubled relationship. The lyrics resonate with the pain of unrequited love and the desire to see a loved one happy. Shawn Mendes speaks to the universal experience of witnessing a loved one in a harmful situation and wishing to offer them solace and a healthier relationship.


Curious to unearth the emotional layers and the poignant message behind Shawn Mendes’s “Treat You Better”? Read on and dive into this captivating song’s profound meanings and story!

“Treat You Better” Lyrics Meaning

“Treat You Better” unfolds as a narrative of unspoken love and silent agony. The lyrics start with, “I won’t lie to you, I know he’s just not right for you,” reflecting an earnest concern for a friend, expressing the singer’s perception of the mismatch in her existing relationship.

The recurring lines, “I know I can treat you better than he can,” depict a genuine conviction and an underlying sense of heartache, addressing the object of his affection, offering solace, and voicing his desire to be the one making her happy. It echoes a sincere wish to provide the love and respect that he feels she deserves, contrasting the current relationship marked by her wasted tears.

The promise, “I’ll stop time for you, The second you say you’d like me to,” reveals a willing commitment and readiness to be there for her. It conveys a longing to fulfill her desires and to be the one she wakes up with, showing a clear contrast to her present unhappy relationship, marked by emotional turmoil.

The poignant plea, “Give me a sign, Take my hand, we’ll be fine,” reflects a yearning for a chance, an opportunity to prove his love and to assure her that she would not be alone. It’s a commitment to never let her down, portraying a stark contrast to her current predicament, inviting the listener to reflect upon the deep emotional layers intertwined in this narrative of love, concern, and heartfelt appeal.

The Story Behind “Treat You Better”

Shawn Mendes, renowned for his emotionally charged and relatable music, brings forth “Treat You Better” from a place of empathy and experience. This song reflects on the feelings one undergoes when they see someone they care about stuck in an unhealthy relationship. The emotions embedded within the lyrics likely stem from Shawn’s own encounters and observations, allowing listeners to connect on a deeper, more personal level.

The song doesn’t just narrate a story of unrequited love but also encapsulates the feeling of helplessness mingled with a strong desire to be the refuge for the loved one. It’s not just about the romantic inclination but also about the profound connection and concern for the well-being of the loved one, creating a relatable scenario for many who have experienced similar situations.

The universal themes of love, pain, concern, and silent hope intertwined in “Treat You Better” mirror the complex dynamics of relationships and human emotions. The articulation of such a narrative might have been Shawn’s way of reaching out to those grappling with similar feelings, offering a musical refuge and a resonant voice to their unspoken emotions.

This song, through its lyrical depth and musical melody, manages to strike a chord with listeners worldwide, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with the ever-evolving tapestry of human emotions and relationships, reflecting the multifaceted nature of love and connection.