Being a sex symbol isn't cool unless you're in love with a girl, and she calls you a sex symbol.

In this quote, Shawn Mendes explores the concept of being a sex symbol and what it truly means to be seen as attractive. He suggests that being labeled as a sex symbol doesn't hold genuine value unless it comes from a place of authentic connection—specifically, when someone you care about, like a girl you love, sees you in that way. Mendes implies that external admiration or objectification lacks meaning if it isn’t rooted in mutual affection and love.

Mendes's perspective highlights the idea that true validation and self-worth come from meaningful relationships rather than superficial labels. Being called a sex symbol by the public or the media may bring temporary attention, but it doesn’t carry the same weight as being seen in a deeper, more personal way by someone who truly understands you. His statement suggests that love and intimacy add depth to one's identity, making it more significant than just physical appeal.

The quote also reveals Mendes's discomfort with the concept of objectification and the superficial nature of fame. He hints that being admired for physical appearance alone can be empty, and only when the admiration is personalized by someone you love does it become meaningful. In this way, Mendes elevates the importance of emotional connection over external validation, signaling that love and genuine admiration are far more valuable.

Ultimately, Mendes’s quote reflects a desire for authenticity and the recognition that being a sex symbol is only truly significant when it aligns with personal relationships and emotional intimacy. His words serve as a reminder that true self-worth is built on love and personal connection, not just on public recognition or superficial fame.