Why Why Why
Shawn Mendes
The Endless Cycle of Self-Questioning in 'Why Why Why'
'Why Why Why' is a deep and emotional song that talks about the anxieties and uncertainties the singer faces in his personal and professional life. Right from the start, Mendes opens his diary and reveals that the pain he feels remains the same, suggesting an ongoing struggle with unresolved emotional issues. The repetition of 'Why? Why? Why?' throughout the song emphasizes this constant search for answers and understanding.
In the second stanza, Shawn describes restless nights, sweating and shaking in bed, with visions of a woman in his mind. Fans speculate that these verses may allude to his ex-girlfriend, singer Camila Cabello, and the singer's difficulty in getting over the relationship. The choice to 'choose himself' instead of continuing with her suggests an internal conflict between following his own path and dealing with the pain of separation.
On the musical front, the song also expresses the singer's conflicting feelings: in 'I stepped off the stage with nothing left', the passage addresses the pressure and exhaustion he feels after performing on stage, questioning why he continues to do so despite the negative impact on his mental health, demonstrating that this dynamic is complex: despite being an exhausting environment, music is also one of Shawn's pillars.
Another significant point in the song is when the singer mentions the possibility of becoming a father, which has shaken him deeply because he still feels like a child. This verse reveals his insecurities and fears about growing up and taking on adult responsibilities. The repetition of the line 'Feels like everything goes round and round' reflects the feeling of being trapped in an endless cycle of doubt and confusion.
The song, therefore, is a window into Shawn's internal struggles, showing his vulnerability and the complexity of his emotions. 'Why Why Why' is the first single from Mende's new album, 'Shawn', which is scheduled for release on October 18, 2024.