selfish

Mark Tuan's song 'Selfish' delves into the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship, marked by regret and self-awareness. The lyrics reveal a deep sense of remorse as the narrator acknowledges their role in the relationship's demise. The opening lines, 'I know you were right, uh, yeah / When you drew a line across this,' set the tone for a confession of past mistakes. The narrator admits to being consumed by toxic thoughts and actions, which ultimately led to the relationship's downfall. This admission is a crucial step in understanding the depth of their regret.

The chorus, 'And I know I was selfish / I know you were perfect,' highlights the contrast between the narrator's flaws and their partner's perceived perfection. This juxtaposition emphasizes the narrator's feelings of unworthiness and the realization that their selfish behavior drove their partner away. The repeated acknowledgment of selfishness serves as a form of self-punishment, as the narrator grapples with the consequences of their actions. The line 'I wish I had one more chance to fix all the mistakes' underscores the longing for redemption and the pain of knowing that such a chance may never come.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of reflection and self-awareness. The narrator's admission, 'I know I can be self-centered / It doesn't mean I love myself,' suggests a deeper understanding of their own flaws and the impact they had on the relationship. This line also hints at a struggle with self-esteem, as the narrator recognizes that their selfish actions were not born out of self-love but rather a lack of it. The song's introspective nature invites listeners to consider their own actions and the importance of accountability in relationships.