Song meaning of New Rules by Dua Lipa

The song "New Rules" by Dua Lipa explores the theme of self-empowerment and setting boundaries in a romantic relationship. The lyrics depict a situation where the protagonist is caught in a cycle of emotional turmoil caused by her love interest. She acknowledges that her love interest does not reciprocate her feelings, leading her to establish a set of rules to protect herself and move forward.

The first rule is to not respond to his calls late at night when he's drunk and lonely, recognizing that these calls are driven by temporary emotions and not genuine affection. The second rule advises her to resist his charm and not let him back into her life just to end up hurt again. The third rule is to distance herself from him and avoid becoming too close, as it will only lead to awakening in his bed the next morning and hinder the process of moving on.

The repetition of the phrase "I got new rules, I count 'em" emphasizes the protagonist's determination to enforce these rules and prioritize her own well-being. The lyrics suggest that following these rules will enable her to break free from the pattern of being pulled back into a toxic relationship and allow her to finally move forward.

Overall, "New Rules" delivers a powerful message of self-love, independence, and personal growth. It highlights the importance of recognizing unhealthy dynamics and taking steps to protect oneself from further emotional damage.