alone

Cat Burns' song 'alone' delves into the deep-seated fear of loneliness and the longing for a meaningful connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the artist's solitary experiences, from 'coffee trips alone' to 'dinner booked for one,' highlighting the mundane yet poignant moments of being single. Burns expresses a struggle with vulnerability, finding it hard to open up and feeling frustrated as time passes without finding a significant other. This frustration is compounded by the well-meaning but ultimately unhelpful reassurances from friends that 'my time will come,' as the years slip by and the fear of perpetual loneliness grows stronger.

The chorus, with its repeated plea of 'Don't wanna be alone forever,' underscores the central theme of the song. Burns articulates a desire for a relationship that is based on genuine love rather than necessity, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and not settling for 'just anybody off the shelf.' This sentiment reflects a mature understanding of love, where the artist wants to 'need you 'cause I love you, not love you 'cause I need you.' The song captures the tension between the hope for a future relationship and the current reality of waiting, with a patient yet anxious undertone.

In the latter part of the song, Burns contemplates the idea of sharing life with someone, questioning whether there is more to life when shared with a partner. This introspection reveals a nuanced perspective on loneliness, acknowledging that while she knows she will be fine on her own, the companionship of a significant other could add a deeper dimension to life. The repetition of 'Don't wanna be alone forever' serves as a haunting reminder of this fear, making 'alone' a poignant exploration of the human need for connection and the anxiety that comes with the possibility of never finding it.