NOT OK

Robert Grace's song 'NOT OK' delves into the complexities of mental health, self-awareness, and the struggle for acceptance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with anxiety and the societal pressures to conform. The opening lines, 'Is it getting harder to breathe / When I'm mixing drinks with my anxiety?' immediately set the tone for a narrative steeped in personal turmoil and the coping mechanisms that often accompany it. The protagonist feels overlooked and misunderstood, as highlighted by the line 'People just talk over me,' which underscores a sense of isolation and invisibility.

The recurring theme of self-destructive behavior is evident in the lines 'I like getting high yeah / And going down in flames.' This suggests a cyclical pattern of seeking temporary relief through harmful habits, only to end up in the same place of despair. The refusal to 'fly' or escape from these issues indicates a resignation to one's circumstances, a theme that resonates throughout the song. The chorus, 'They say I'm not ok, I'm not ok / Ok I got it,' reflects a resigned acceptance of others' perceptions, while also hinting at a deeper, internal struggle for self-acceptance.

The song also touches on the concept of being one's own worst enemy, as seen in the lines 'Monsters following me / Hiding in the walls of my mind, I can’t sleep.' This metaphorical language captures the relentless nature of internal battles and the difficulty of finding peace. Despite the acknowledgment of these struggles, the protagonist expresses a desire to maintain the status quo, as indicated by the repeated line 'But it’s ok / That’s how I want it.' This acceptance of imperfection and the chaotic nature of life is a poignant reminder of the complexities of mental health and the journey towards self-acceptance.