Thanks, I Guess

With words that form the very same sound

You build me up while tearing me down

I'm half a halo, half a mess

Another compliment, thanks, I guess

"You're really brave to wear that out,"

My confidence dissolves to doubt

"You're not as naïve as you seem."

Another blow to my self—esteem

"I'm surprised you got it right the first time."

Polished words covered in grime

"Your cooking was surprisingly good."

Praise and putdown understood

Every line's a loaded gun

Shots silenced, damage done

With words that form the very same sound

You build me up while tearing me down

I'm half a halo, half a mess

Another compliment, thanks, I guess

"That outfit makes you look much thinner."

Another saint, another sinner

"You look pretty, what's the occasion?"

Another caress, another abrasion

"Wow, you're actually really smart."

More feigned praise, another dart

"I love how you don't care what others think."

More dual meanings out of sync

Your words always follow the same old theme

Compliments playing for the putdown team

Each one hides a darker twin

One smiles broadly, one cuts skin

Every line's a loaded gun

Shots silenced, damage done

With words that form the very same sound

You build me up while tearing me down

I'm half a halo, half a mess

Backhanded compliments, thanks...I guess