Don't Make Me Change
JMSN
The Struggle for Authenticity in JMSN's 'Don't Make Me Change'
JMSN's song 'Don't Make Me Change' delves into the internal conflict of maintaining one's identity amidst external pressures. The lyrics reveal a deep-seated fear of losing oneself, as the artist grapples with the idea that the things that once defined him are now slipping away. This sense of loss is palpable in lines like 'The things that used to define, are somehow just gone,' suggesting a profound transformation that feels almost out of his control. The song's emotional core is the plea to not be forced into changing who he is, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has felt the pressure to conform.
The chorus, with its repeated refrain 'So don't make me change who I am,' underscores the artist's desperation to hold onto his true self. JMSN questions whether it's 'crazy' to cling to the elements that have shaped his identity, highlighting the tension between personal growth and staying true to one's roots. This struggle is further emphasized by the metaphor of 'playing with lightning,' which conveys the danger and unpredictability of navigating these changes. The artist acknowledges that while change is inevitable, it comes with a price, and he is wary of losing the essence of who he is.
In the latter part of the song, JMSN reflects on the past, pondering whether he has forgotten what truly mattered. The lines 'Could it be that I forgot the way it was? Back when nothing meant as much' suggest a longing for simpler times when his sense of self was more secure. The repeated assertion that 'it don't matter at all' can be seen as a coping mechanism, a way to downplay the significance of these changes and the accompanying emotional turmoil. Ultimately, 'Don't Make Me Change' is a poignant exploration of the fear of losing one's identity and the struggle to remain authentic in a world that often demands conformity.