My Own Person
Smoothboi Ezra
The Struggle for Self-Identity in 'My Own Person'
Smoothboi Ezra's song 'My Own Person' delves deep into the struggle of self-identity and the feeling of being lost within oneself. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has been stuck in a repetitive cycle, symbolized by wearing the same two outfits for three years. This repetition signifies a lack of change and growth, highlighting the artist's struggle to find inspiration and a sense of individuality. The act of buying new clothes, which should ideally bring a sense of renewal, only brings more despair, as it draws unwanted attention and fails to make the artist feel like their own person.
The recurring theme of feeling like 'some other version of me' underscores a profound disconnection from one's true self. The artist expresses frustration with discussing the same problems repeatedly without seeing any progress, indicating a sense of stagnation. This stagnation is further emphasized by the desire to blend into the background and be 'nobody,' suggesting a deep-seated wish to escape the pressures of identity and societal expectations. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness, as the artist feels cursed and filled with doubt, unable to break free from this cycle.
The song also touches on the mental and emotional toll of this identity crisis. The mention of 'bad thoughts lurking' wherever the artist goes highlights the pervasive nature of their struggles. The desire to be 'buried in the ground' and never be dug out is a powerful metaphor for wanting to escape from the overwhelming burden of self-doubt and the lack of a sense of self. Despite the yearning to feel like they can be themselves, the artist feels that the longer they stay in this state, the worse things become, ultimately concluding that they will never be their own person. This poignant exploration of self-identity and the accompanying emotional turmoil resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt lost or disconnected from their true self.