Something 2 B
Alex G
The Struggle for Identity in Alex G's 'Something 2 B'
Alex G's song 'Something 2 B' delves into the complexities of identity and the internal battles that come with it. The opening lines, 'I've been lying in my basement, I wanna call you, but I can't speak out,' set a tone of isolation and emotional paralysis. The mention of 'too many uppers, too many downers' suggests a struggle with substance abuse, which further complicates the protagonist's ability to connect with others and articulate their feelings. This paints a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons, trying to find a way out but feeling trapped by their circumstances.
The recurring line, 'Being somebody is just something to be,' serves as a poignant refrain that underscores the song's central theme. It suggests a sense of disillusionment with the concept of identity itself. The repetition of this line emphasizes the idea that being 'somebody'—having a defined identity or role in society—is ultimately just a superficial construct. This existential perspective challenges the listener to question the importance and authenticity of societal labels and roles.
The second verse introduces a more surreal and disturbing imagery: 'Me and my mother went to the doctor, they tied me up and took my insides out.' This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the invasive and often dehumanizing nature of medical or psychological treatment. The line 'They got some scissors and clipped my feathers' evokes a sense of loss and confinement, as if the protagonist's potential for freedom and self-expression has been forcibly removed. Yet, the concluding line, 'And now I got nothing to worry about,' adds a layer of irony, suggesting that the removal of these burdens has left the protagonist in a state of numbness rather than true liberation.
Overall, 'Something 2 B' is a haunting exploration of the struggle for identity and the impact of external forces on one's sense of self. Alex G's minimalist yet evocative lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences with identity, isolation, and the search for meaning in a complex world.