Why Try To Change Me Now?

Fiona Apple's rendition of 'Why Try To Change Me Now?' is a poignant exploration of self-acceptance and the resistance to conform to societal expectations. The song, originally written by Cy Coleman and Joseph McCarthy, finds new life in Apple's emotive delivery, which adds layers of vulnerability and defiance. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is unapologetically themselves, despite the quirks and habits that might seem odd to others. The opening lines, 'I'm sentimental so I walk in the rain / I've got some habits even I can't explain,' set the tone for a narrative of embracing one's idiosyncrasies rather than hiding them.

The song delves deeper into the theme of non-conformity with lines like 'Why can't I be more conventional? / People talk and they stare, so I try.' Here, Apple captures the internal struggle of wanting to fit in while recognizing that doing so would mean losing a part of oneself. The imagery of 'daydreams galore' and 'cigarette ashes' further emphasizes a life lived on one's own terms, even if it means being misunderstood or judged by others. The repeated refrain, 'Why try to change me now?' serves as a powerful assertion of self-identity and a plea for acceptance.

In the final verse, the song takes on a more intimate tone, addressing a loved one directly. 'You know I'll love you till the moon's upside down / Don't you remember? I was always your clown' suggests a deep, enduring love that transcends the need for change. This line underscores the idea that true love involves accepting someone for who they are, quirks and all. Fiona Apple's interpretation of this classic song is a beautiful reminder that individuality should be celebrated, not suppressed.