Standing On Your Own

“Standing On Your Own” by Paper Twins delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the painful realization of being second best. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the harsh truth that the person they love is deeply committed to someone else. The opening lines, “Out of my mind how can I be so blind / How could I not see,” reflect the narrator's self-reproach and disbelief at their own naivety. This sets the tone for a song filled with introspection and heartache.

The recurring theme of being “left on the floor” symbolizes the narrator's emotional devastation and sense of abandonment. Despite their strong feelings, they acknowledge that the object of their affection is “always there” for someone else, which intensifies their sense of isolation. The chorus, “Ah, I keep living alone / We're so far from home / Free and ready to flee from this all / Oh, to be standing on your own,” captures the longing for independence and the desire to escape the emotional pain. It suggests a yearning for self-reliance and the strength to move on from a one-sided love.

The song also touches on the struggle to maintain strength in the face of ongoing heartache. Lines like “I guess I must be strong / 'Cause this might go on for long” highlight the narrator's resolve to endure the emotional turmoil, even though it feels overwhelming. The repetition of the phrase “Oh, to be standing on your own” serves as a mantra for self-empowerment, emphasizing the importance of finding inner strength and independence. Paper Twins effectively use poignant lyrics and a melancholic melody to convey the universal experience of unrequited love and the journey towards self-discovery and resilience.