It's not my fault (it's yours)
Jazmin Bean
The Struggle of Self-Perception and Societal Expectations
Jazmin Bean's song "It's not my fault (it's yours)" delves into the complex emotions surrounding self-perception, societal expectations, and the often futile quest for personal validation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with feelings of inadequacy and the pressure to meet external standards of success and happiness. The repeated questioning of whether one is happy, making money, or feeling successful highlights the societal benchmarks that often dictate self-worth. Despite these pressures, the protagonist admits to feeling unsuccessful and overwhelmed, as symbolized by the food on their plate and their constant lateness.
The chorus, with its defiant declaration of "It's not my fault, it's yours," suggests a struggle to reconcile personal shortcomings with external blame. This line can be interpreted as a defense mechanism, a way to cope with the internal turmoil by projecting it outward. The mention of therapy and the ironic statement of being "cured" yet still feeling unfulfilled underscores the complexity of mental health and the unrealistic expectation that therapy alone can solve deep-seated issues. The protagonist's self-awareness of their complaints, despite having a seemingly enriched life, adds another layer of irony and self-criticism.
The song also touches on the impact of physical appearance and societal validation, particularly in the lines about being thinner and making it onto the US charts. This reflects the pervasive influence of media and cultural standards on self-esteem and success. The repeated phrase "some days it just eats me up" poignantly captures the ongoing struggle with these internal and external pressures. Jazmin Bean's raw and candid lyrics offer a powerful commentary on the challenges of navigating self-worth in a world that often equates it with external achievements and appearances.