Love Someone Else
Lower Than Atlantis
The Struggle of Authenticity in the Public Eye
Lower Than Atlantis' song "Love Someone Else" delves into the complexities of self-expression and the struggle to maintain authenticity in the face of public perception. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of vulnerability and frustration as the narrator grapples with the disconnect between their true self and the persona perceived by others. The opening lines highlight the paradox of lyrical expression, where the act of sharing one's thoughts and feelings through music can lead to misunderstandings about one's true identity.
The chorus emphasizes the narrator's feelings of isolation and the pressure to conform to others' expectations. The repeated line, "You think you know me but you don't," underscores the theme of misperception and the desire for genuine understanding. The narrator's plea for a place to rest and some time alone reflects a need for respite from the constant scrutiny and judgment. This sentiment is further reinforced by the line, "I've tried my best to be myself, if that's not good enough, oh well," which conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance of the fact that not everyone will appreciate or understand their true self.
The song also touches on the idea of developing a thicker skin to cope with public criticism, as seen in the lines, "Grow thicker skin or live within the public me, the evil twin." This metaphor of an 'evil twin' represents the facade that one might adopt to protect their true self from harm. Ultimately, the song's message is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance and the courage to be authentic, even when faced with misunderstanding and rejection.