Him

James Marriott's song 'Him' delves into the emotional turmoil of feeling replaced and inadequate in the face of a romantic rival. The lyrics poignantly capture the narrator's sense of betrayal and confusion as they grapple with their partner's choice to be with someone else. The repeated question, 'Why’d it have to be him?' underscores the narrator's disbelief and pain, highlighting the cyclical nature of their heartbreak as they mention, 'we’ve been here before, it’s come back around.' This suggests a recurring pattern of disappointment and unfulfilled expectations in their relationship.

The song is rich with metaphors and vivid imagery that convey the narrator's inner conflict. Lines like 'One more hardback in your bookcase' and 'Leave the future defined, if you don’t mind' suggest a sense of being just another chapter in their partner's life, easily replaced and forgotten. The narrator's self-doubt is palpable as they compare themselves to the new guy, wondering, 'Have you ever seen a guy with moves like that?' and 'Was it because he thought he could be much more than I’ve ever been?' These lines reveal a deep-seated insecurity and a longing to understand what makes the other person more desirable.

Marriott's musical style, often characterized by introspective lyrics and emotive melodies, enhances the song's themes of vulnerability and heartache. The repetition of the chorus amplifies the narrator's desperation and the haunting realization that they may never measure up to their partner's new love interest. The song's structure, with its cyclical questioning and reflective verses, mirrors the narrator's internal struggle to come to terms with their feelings of inadequacy and loss. 'Him' is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, self-worth, and the painful process of moving on from a relationship that seems to be stuck in a loop of disappointment.