If I Look Fine
Roet
The Hidden Struggles Behind a Smile
Roet's song "If I Look Fine" delves deep into the often invisible battle with mental illness. The repeated line, "If I look fine that's how you know I'm not," serves as a poignant reminder that appearances can be deceiving. The artist uses this refrain to highlight the disconnect between outward appearances and internal turmoil. This theme is further emphasized through the metaphor of moods changing like the weather, suggesting the unpredictable and uncontrollable nature of mental health struggles.
The lyrics also touch on the exhausting and relentless nature of mental illness. Phrases like "This illness is killing, it's mentally draining" and "These gears always turning in my head" paint a vivid picture of the constant mental strain. The artist expresses a sense of helplessness and frustration, acknowledging the efforts to get better but feeling as though they are slipping through their fingers. This imagery of slipping and losing grip underscores the difficulty of maintaining control over one's mental state.
Roet's candidness about thoughts of dying and the inability to express emotions outwardly, such as crying, adds another layer of depth to the song. The lines "If I look fine, but I'm thinking of dying, you won't see me crying" reveal the internalized pain and the struggle to communicate it. This highlights a common experience for many dealing with mental health issues, where societal expectations and personal pride can prevent them from seeking help or showing vulnerability. The song serves as a powerful message about the importance of looking beyond the surface and understanding the hidden battles that many face daily.