Never Be Ourselves
Savannah Conley
The Struggle for Authenticity in Relationships
Savannah Conley's song "Never Be Ourselves" delves into the complexities and vulnerabilities inherent in romantic relationships. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship where both partners are hesitant to reveal their true selves, fearing judgment and rejection. Conley opens with an invitation for physical and emotional connection, but quickly warns that her heart is fragile and easily broken. This sets the tone for a narrative where love is approached with caution and a sense of impending heartbreak.
The chorus, with its repeated question, "Does it always end up like this?" highlights a recurring theme of disillusionment. Conley suggests that in relationships, people often hide their weaknesses and true feelings, leading to a lack of genuine connection. The line "Nobody wants to know your weakness" underscores the societal pressure to appear strong and unblemished, even in intimate settings. This facade prevents partners from truly understanding and accepting each other, ultimately leading to a sense of isolation and the inability to be one's authentic self.
In the bridge, Conley urges her partner to shed their metaphorical skin, to reveal their true self. However, she acknowledges the competitive nature of relationships with the line "may the best man win," indicating that even in vulnerability, there is a struggle for dominance and acceptance. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the universal nature of this struggle, where hiding scars and conforming to societal expectations prevents genuine connection. Conley's haunting vocals and introspective lyrics resonate deeply, capturing the essence of the human desire for authenticity and the fear that often accompanies it.