I Should Be a Bird

Nina Nesbitt's song "I Should Be a Bird" delves into the emotional complexities of a strained relationship. The lyrics reveal a narrative of someone who is trying to support their partner through difficult times but is feeling overwhelmed by the emotional burden. The recurring theme of wanting to be a bird symbolizes a desire for freedom and escape, yet the protagonist feels unable to fly due to the weight of their partner's struggles and their own emotional exhaustion. This metaphor of a bird with hurt wings poignantly captures the feeling of being trapped and unable to rise above the challenges.

The song's verses highlight the internal conflict of wanting to help and support a loved one while also feeling suffocated and drained. Lines like "Sometimes you talk, got me thinkin' that you hate me" and "I don't wanna see you down" reflect the push and pull of love and frustration. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of hope and despair, as they live for the moments when they see positive changes but are constantly brought back down by the ongoing difficulties. This cyclical nature of their emotions is emphasized by the imagery of flying in circles, never truly breaking free.

Nina Nesbitt's heartfelt delivery and the song's poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the heavy burden of love and the struggle to maintain one's own well-being while supporting someone else. The repeated question, "How am I supposed to carry the weight of your love when it gets this heavy?" underscores the central theme of the song: the challenge of balancing love and self-preservation. The song ultimately leaves listeners reflecting on the difficult choices one must make in relationships and the toll it can take on one's spirit.