Born with a Broken Heart

Olivia O'Brien's 'Born with a Broken Heart' delves into the profound sense of emotional numbness and existential questioning that many people experience. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a person who feels disconnected from their emotions and struggles to find genuine happiness or sadness. The repetition of daily routines and the inability to feel anything deeply are central themes, as the protagonist admits to faking love and creating chaos in their life just to feel something. This sense of desperation is palpable, highlighting the lengths to which one might go to break free from emotional stagnation.

The chorus reveals a deeper layer of self-reflection and confusion. The lines 'I can't cry unless I'm not blinking / I can't smile unless I've been drinking' suggest a reliance on external factors to trigger emotional responses, indicating a possible struggle with mental health. The repeated questioning of why they are 'wired differently' and the plea for someone to explain what's wrong underscores a sense of isolation and a search for understanding. The metaphor of being 'born with a broken heart' or 'built to fall apart' suggests an inherent flaw or predisposition to emotional turmoil, adding a layer of fatalism to the narrative.

In the latter part of the song, there is a glimmer of hope as the protagonist considers making changes to their lifestyle, such as waking up early, drinking coffee, making friends, or taking up a hobby. These lines suggest a desire for self-improvement and a hope that these changes might help them feel something. However, the recurring refrain of being 'born with a broken heart' leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved tension, as if the protagonist is still grappling with the possibility that their emotional struggles are an inescapable part of who they are.