Your Hands

GRAE's song 'Your Hands' is a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and accountability. The lyrics convey a strong message about taking responsibility for one's actions and the consequences that follow. The song opens with a direct confrontation, questioning the other person's perception and asserting independence: 'I'm not your woman / And you're not my man.' This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where GRAE emphasizes that the other person had control over the situation but failed to manage it properly.

The recurring metaphor of the river and the dam is particularly striking. GRAE sings, 'You poured the river / And then you built the dam,' illustrating how the other person created obstacles and then played the victim. This imagery is a powerful way to show that the problems in the relationship were self-inflicted and that the other person must own up to their mistakes. The repetition of 'It was all in your hands' reinforces this theme of accountability, making it clear that the responsibility lies with the other person.

GRAE also addresses the issue of objectification and control. Lines like 'I'm not a jacket / That you can flash and then hang on up' and 'I'm not your brand new toy / Don't call me baby' highlight the singer's refusal to be treated as an object or possession. This is a strong statement against being dehumanized and underscores the importance of self-respect and dignity. The song concludes with a firm stance on moving forward and not looking back, encapsulated in the lines, 'I don't wanna float backwards / I'm not gonna go backwards / Not for a gambling man.' This final declaration of independence and self-worth leaves a lasting impression, making 'Your Hands' a compelling narrative of empowerment and personal responsibility.