Why Am I Like This?

Orla Gartland's song "Why Am I Like This?" is a poignant exploration of self-reflection and the feeling of being out of place. The lyrics convey a sense of introspection and the struggle to understand one's own actions and feelings. Gartland's narrative is one of a young person who feels like an old soul, someone who is physically present in youthful activities, like getting tattoos, but emotionally detached, standing aside like a ghost. This duality suggests a disconnect between how she is expected to behave and how she actually feels, leading to the recurring question, "Why am I like this?"

The song also touches on social anxiety and the difficulty of being present in the moment. The artist describes herself as someone who overthinks conversations and is unable to engage fully with others, even at a birthday party where she should be enjoying herself. This is further illustrated by the encounter with a crying girl on the train, where Gartland observes the girl's distress but feels unable to reach out and offer comfort. The mention of the girl's gin and tonic from a can symbolizes an attempt to numb pain, a sentiment that resonates with the song's theme of coping with emotional discomfort.

Orla Gartland's musical style often includes indie pop elements with a focus on storytelling through her lyrics. In "Why Am I Like This?", she uses her songwriting to grapple with the complexities of her identity and the challenges of connecting with others. The repetition of the titular question serves as a mantra for anyone who has ever felt out of step with their surroundings or with the expectations of society. It's a call for understanding oneself and a recognition of the internal battles that many face in silence.