Strong

Robbie Williams' 'Strong' is a candid exploration of the artist's personal struggles and the facade of strength that people often feel compelled to maintain. The song opens with a raw and humorous admission of his less-than-ideal habits and appearance, which sets the tone for a confessional piece. The lyrics 'My breath smells of a thousand fags' and 'I dance like me Dad' suggest a self-deprecating awareness, while the reference to dressing like his father and looking like the band Kiss without makeup indicates a deeper sense of identity crisis.

The chorus, 'You think that I'm strong, you're wrong,' is a powerful declaration that challenges the listener's perception of Williams. It's a moment of vulnerability where he admits that despite outward appearances or public persona, he struggles with his own weaknesses and insecurities. The repetition of 'my life's a mess and I'm trying to grow' underscores the theme of personal growth amidst chaos. The song's bridge, with its reflective tone, suggests a longing for simplicity and a time when life felt less complicated.

The song also touches on the theme of escapism, with references to 'takeaways and fantasies' and the 'pause button broke on my video,' which could symbolize a desire to pause or escape from reality. The mention of talk show hosts Oprah Winfrey and Rikki Lake represents the influence of media and the often unrealistic expectations it sets. Ultimately, 'Strong' is a reminder that life is fleeting, and it's important to face our fears and pain rather than numb them with temporary solutions, as echoed in the lines 'Life's too short to be afraid, so take a pill to numb the pain, you don't have to take the blame.'