Beauty And a Freak

John Michael Howell's song 'Beauty And a Freak' delves deep into the themes of self-worth, insecurity, and unrequited love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their own sense of inadequacy and self-loathing. The protagonist sees themselves as a 'monster' and a 'freak,' unworthy of the love and affection of someone they perceive as beautiful and complete. This stark contrast between their self-image and the object of their affection creates a poignant narrative of longing and despair.

The song's chorus is particularly striking, as it repeatedly emphasizes the protagonist's belief that they are undeserving of love. Lines like 'A beauty like you was never meant for me' and 'Who could ever fall for a freak like me?' highlight the deep-seated insecurities and the internal struggle of feeling unworthy. This self-deprecating view is a powerful reflection of how many people feel when they compare themselves to others, often seeing only their flaws and not their worth.

Moreover, the song touches on the idea of change and the futility of trying to alter the past. The protagonist wishes that the object of their affection could 'rewind the past' and 'rebuild the roads,' but ultimately acknowledges that it's just a daydream. This acceptance of reality, despite the pain it brings, adds another layer of depth to the song. It speaks to the universal human experience of wishing for things to be different but coming to terms with the fact that some things are beyond our control.