What's My Name
The Clash
Identity Crisis and Rebellion in The Clash's 'What's My Name'
The Clash's song 'What's My Name' delves into the themes of identity crisis and societal rebellion. The lyrics reflect a sense of frustration and confusion, as the protagonist grapples with not being the person they aspire to be. The opening lines, 'What the hell is wrong with me? I'm not who I want to be,' set the tone for a narrative of self-doubt and disillusionment. The mention of trying various remedies, like 'spot cream,' symbolizes futile attempts to conform to societal standards or expectations, only to end up feeling more trapped and desperate, 'crawling up the wall.'
The chorus, 'What's my name,' repeated with a sense of urgency and desperation, underscores the protagonist's search for identity and belonging. This quest is further complicated by societal rejection, as illustrated by the failed attempt to join a ping-pong club and the subsequent run-in with the law. The line 'the judge didn't even know' highlights a sense of invisibility and lack of recognition from authority figures, exacerbating the protagonist's feelings of alienation.
The song also touches on familial dysfunction and its impact on the individual's psyche. The verse about the father getting drunk and the mother being bribed through the letterbox paints a picture of a chaotic home environment. This turmoil drives the protagonist to acts of rebellion, such as peeping into windows and mocking security measures. The closing lines, 'An' you won't know who came,' suggest a final act of defiance and anonymity, leaving the listener with a haunting sense of unresolved identity and rebellion.