Not As We

Alanis Morissette's song 'Not As We' is a poignant reflection on starting anew and the challenges of self-reinvention. The lyrics convey a sense of rebirth, as the protagonist finds themselves 'spat out on new terrain,' indicating a drastic change in their life circumstances. This change is both frightening and disorienting, as suggested by the words 'unsure, unconvincing' and 'faint and shaky hour.' The repetition of 'day one, start over again' and 'step one' emphasizes the idea of beginning from scratch, highlighting the daunting task of rebuilding oneself from the ground up.

The phrase 'I'm faking it till I'm pseudo making it' reveals the protagonist's strategy for coping with the uncertainty of their new situation. They are pretending to be confident and in control until they can actually feel that way. The song's chorus, 'from scratch begin again but this time I as I and not as we,' suggests a departure from a previous partnership or collective identity. The protagonist is now forging a path alone, focusing on self-identity rather than a shared one. This theme of individuality is further underscored by the imagery of being 'gun shy and quivering' and 'timid without a hand,' which paints a picture of vulnerability and the absence of support.

The emotional depth of the song is captured in the line 'If God's taking bets, I pray He wants to lose,' which can be interpreted as a plea for the protagonist's new beginning to be successful against the odds. Morissette's lyrics often explore themes of personal growth, healing, and the complexities of human emotions, and 'Not As We' is a testament to her ability to articulate the struggles of change and the courage it takes to face oneself alone.