Consistent
No/Me
The Struggle for Authenticity in a Cynical World
No/Me's song "Consistent" delves into the internal conflict of a person who grapples with skepticism and cynicism while yearning for authenticity and connection. The lyrics reveal a protagonist who is self-aware of their critical nature and the difficulty they face in trusting others. This skepticism is not just directed outward but also inward, as they are their own harshest critic. Despite this, there is a desire to open up and let someone in, indicating a struggle between their defensive mechanisms and a deep-seated need for genuine human connection.
The chorus, "At least I’m consistent, know me like that," serves as a bittersweet acknowledgment of the protagonist's flaws. They recognize their patterns of behavior, such as finding it hard to love and having a tendency to hurt others, yet they take a sort of pride in their consistency. This line encapsulates the paradox of being self-aware yet seemingly powerless to change, highlighting the complexity of human emotions and behaviors.
Further into the song, the protagonist's neurotic and narcissistic tendencies are explored. They admit to craving attention and feeling alive when they receive it, even though they often mess up their best intentions. The lyrics also touch on familial expectations and the pressure to conform, with the protagonist's family thinking they've lost their way. The song paints a picture of someone who is acutely aware of their shortcomings and the impact they have on their relationships, yet remains steadfast in their identity, even if it means being seen as a 'freak' or 'fake.' This raw honesty and self-acceptance, despite the flaws, make the song a poignant exploration of the human condition.