Ray

Millencolin's song 'Ray' is a powerful anthem about self-acceptance and the importance of staying true to oneself despite external pressures. The lyrics convey a strong message of individuality and resistance against conforming to others' expectations. The protagonist in the song is addressing someone who is trying to mold them into something they are not, emphasizing that they are dynamic and ever-changing, not static or easily defined.

The song opens with a rhetorical question, 'Hey, what the hell do you want me to do?' This sets the tone for the rest of the lyrics, which are filled with defiance and a refusal to be controlled. The line 'Your intention's nice, you're improving' suggests that while the other person's efforts might be well-meaning, they are ultimately misguided. The protagonist asserts their independence with lines like 'I'm just myself not your toy' and 'It's in my nature to be changing,' highlighting the natural human tendency to evolve over time.

The chorus reinforces the theme of change and authenticity. The metaphor 'even jewellery that's fake do shine' implies that appearances can be deceiving, and true value lies beneath the surface. The protagonist rejects superficial judgments and insists on their right to change and grow. The song's closing lines, 'I change with time and that's not a crime,' serve as a final declaration of self-empowerment. Millencolin's punk rock style, known for its energetic and rebellious spirit, perfectly complements the song's message, making 'Ray' a compelling call to embrace one's true self and resist societal pressures to conform.