What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Paranoid

The Beaches' song 'What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Paranoid' delves into the emotional aftermath of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the lingering effects of heartbreak, leading to a heightened sense of paranoia and self-doubt. The opening lines, 'I think I'm becoming a conspiracy theorist / Everyone says that love exists / But I think that it's a myth,' set the tone for the song, suggesting a deep skepticism about love and its authenticity. This skepticism is further amplified by the protagonist's actions, such as closing the curtains and crying to lyrics, indicating a retreat into isolation and introspection.

The chorus, 'What doesn't kill you, makes you paranoid / What doesn't kill you, makes you feel like your love ain't shit,' flips the common adage 'What doesn't kill you makes you stronger' on its head. Instead of emerging stronger, the protagonist feels more insecure and paranoid. The inner voice, personified as a 'bitch,' constantly brings up past issues, exacerbating the protagonist's feelings of inadequacy and embarrassment. This internal struggle is a central theme, highlighting how unresolved emotional pain can lead to a cycle of self-doubt and paranoia.

In the second verse, the protagonist's quest for validation becomes apparent. Cutting their hair for compliments and lamenting the loss of self-esteem left 'at the base of your bedsheets' underscores a desperate need for external approval. The line 'Well she's just brand new and unimproved I guess' reflects a sense of resignation and acceptance of a changed self, one that is not necessarily better. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea that the emotional scars from the past continue to haunt the protagonist, making them question their worth and the authenticity of their feelings. The song captures the raw, unfiltered emotions of someone navigating the complexities of love, loss, and self-worth, making it a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced the darker side of relationships.