If I Weren't Me

Katherine Li's song 'If I Weren't Me' delves into the complex emotions of self-doubt and the longing for acceptance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their own identity, questioning whether they are enough as they are. The song begins with the protagonist reflecting on a social interaction, replaying scenes from a party and lamenting over their words and actions. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of self-worth and the desire to be liked by others.

The recurring theme in the song is the protagonist's internal struggle with their own personality traits. They ponder whether they come off too strong, love too hard, or fall too quickly into love. These questions highlight a common human experience: the fear of not being accepted for who we truly are. The protagonist wonders if they would be more likable if they were different—happier, funnier, cooler, or more put together. This reflects a universal insecurity, where one feels the need to change themselves to fit into societal or personal expectations.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's self-doubt intensifies. They compare themselves to another person, questioning if being 'prettier, luckier, crazier, busier, lovelier, or earlier' would make them more lovable. This comparison underscores the damaging effects of self-comparison and the pressure to conform to an idealized version of oneself. The repeated questioning of 'Would that make you love me?' poignantly captures the yearning for unconditional love and acceptance. Ultimately, 'If I Weren't Me' is a heartfelt exploration of the struggle for self-acceptance and the painful desire to be loved for who we are, not who we think we should be.