Ashley

Halsey's song 'Ashley' delves deep into the complexities of identity, self-realization, and the pressures of societal expectations. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the weight of their own decisions and the external pressures that come with living in a society that often demands conformity. The opening lines, 'Standing now, in the mirror that I built myself,' suggest a self-reflective moment where the protagonist is confronting the person they've become, shaped by their own choices and the expectations of others. This introspection is further emphasized by the line, 'I can't remember why the decision wasn't mine,' indicating a sense of loss of control over their own life path.

The recurring theme of wanting to escape or transform is evident in the lines, 'Someday, someday, when I burst into flames, I'll leave you the dust, my love.' This metaphor of bursting into flames symbolizes a desire for rebirth or a dramatic change, leaving behind the remnants of their past self. The song also touches on the idea of emotional labor and the burden of carrying the weight of one's choices, as seen in the lines, 'It's a muscle, but it's still not strong enough to carry the weight of the choices I've made.' This highlights the internal struggle of trying to reconcile one's actions with their emotional capacity.

Halsey also addresses the misconceptions and unrealistic expectations placed upon her by others, particularly in relationships. The lines, 'Too many guys think I'm a concept, or I complete them, or I'm gonna make them alive,' reflect the frustration of being seen as an ideal or a solution to someone else's problems rather than being recognized as a flawed individual seeking her own peace of mind. This candid admission, 'I'm just a fucked up girl who's lookin' for my own piece of mind,' underscores the universal quest for self-acceptance and the rejection of imposed identities.