The People We Keep frequently includes song titles and lyrics to develop its setting and further its plot. April is an aspiring musician who writes and performs original songs, and her lyrics offer readers insight into April’s state of mind and emotions. Lyrics give April an opportunity to express herself, and she often comes to a deeper understanding of her situation through her songs. They are a channel through which she can express her deepest feelings and explore her past traumas.

April’s lyrics often focus on her desire to be loved and her search for stability. She experiences different romantic relationships during the novel, and each one’s shortcomings stem from her inability to recognize what she truly needs. For instance, after reuniting with Matty in New York City in hopes of rekindling old flames, she writes:

I don’t want you

To fall back into me

And I don’t want to want you,

Cause it’s so easy

I want your love

I want you to want me

Make a choice in my direction,

But don’t fall into me (204).

After meeting Matty, April momentarily regrets leaving him but ultimately realizes he would have left her if she hadn’t left him.