I Don't Hate You

Plan B's song "I Don't Hate You" is a raw and emotional exploration of a son's tumultuous relationship with his estranged father. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a father who abandoned his family in pursuit of religious fervor, leaving behind a trail of emotional scars. The son, now grown, reflects on the impact of his father's absence and the bizarre, often oppressive religious practices he imposed during their brief interactions. The song's narrative is filled with resentment, confusion, and a sense of betrayal, yet it stops short of outright hatred, instead settling into a complex mix of indifference and pity.

The song delves into the father's extreme religious behavior, which alienated him from his family and society. The son recalls how his father would force religious rituals upon him, even for mundane activities like eating a candy bar. This overzealousness is depicted as a form of control and madness, contributing to the father's eventual disappearance. The lyrics also touch on the father's new relationship, suggesting that his departure was influenced by a manipulative partner. The son grapples with the emotional void left by his father's absence, questioning the reasons behind his departure and the impact it had on his upbringing.

Despite the bitterness, the song's chorus reveals a nuanced emotional state. The son declares that he neither hates nor loves his father, indicating a sense of emotional detachment. This detachment is further emphasized by the son's success and self-identity, which he contrasts with his father's failures. The song concludes with a sense of pity for the father, acknowledging the lasting impact of his actions but refusing to let them define the son's life. This complex emotional landscape makes "I Don't Hate You" a poignant reflection on the long-term effects of parental abandonment and the struggle to find closure and self-worth in its aftermath.