By Myself

Maya Hawke's song 'By Myself' delves into the complexities of self-reflection, emotional turmoil, and the struggle for personal identity within the context of a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons while trying to navigate the intricacies of love and connection. The imagery of breaking a hive and feeding on honey suggests a desire to extract something sweet and nourishing from the relationship, yet it also hints at the pain and effort involved in doing so. This duality sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the protagonist is caught between their own needs and the impact of their actions on their partner.

The recurring theme of self-dialogue is evident in lines like 'I'm playing with myself' and 'I'm talking to myself.' These phrases highlight the internal conflict and the sense of isolation the protagonist feels, even when they are with someone else. The use of metaphors such as 'talked in rings to turn your spine' and 'playing Caliban in bed' further emphasizes the mental and emotional gymnastics the protagonist undergoes. Caliban, a character from Shakespeare's 'The Tempest,' symbolizes the raw, untamed aspects of human nature, suggesting that the protagonist is wrestling with their darker impulses.

The song also touches on the idea of preferring dreams to reality, as seen in the lines 'I prefer my dreams of you to anything you'd ever do.' This indicates a disillusionment with the real world and a retreat into the safety of one's imagination. The final lines, 'Woe is me, I'm black and blue, at least I always tell the truth,' encapsulate the emotional bruising the protagonist endures. Despite the pain, there is a sense of honesty and self-awareness that permeates the song, making it a poignant exploration of the human condition.