...well, better than the alternative.

Will Wood and The Tapeworms' song "...well, better than the alternative." delves into the intricate themes of self-doubt, societal expectations, and the quest for acceptance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their identity and the pressures of conforming to societal norms. The opening lines, with references to "pink lemonade on autumn bomber coats" and "Peter Pan collars," evoke a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time, highlighting the inevitable growth and change that comes with it. The mention of the daughter growing up and the fear of her becoming like the narrator underscores the internal conflict and the desire to break free from past mistakes or perceived flaws.

The recurring line, "Baby, could you play along with me?" serves as a plea for understanding and companionship in the face of personal struggles. The narrator's vulnerability is palpable as they seek reassurance and validation, asking if they are still "pretty" despite their flaws. This yearning for acceptance is further emphasized in the lines about cigarette burns, laugh lines, and wide dimples, which symbolize the physical and emotional scars that come with life's experiences. The song suggests that everyone has their own battles, and in a world where "everybody’s different," finding someone who truly understands and accepts you is a rare and precious thing.

The song also touches on the idea of societal scrutiny and the pressure to conform. The repeated lines about everyone being "in on everybody’s business" reflect the invasive nature of societal judgment and the struggle to maintain individuality in a world that constantly seeks to categorize and label. The narrator's frustration is evident as they navigate these external pressures while trying to stay true to themselves. The closing lines, questioning "what’s so wrong about what’s wrong with me," encapsulate the central theme of the song: the quest for self-acceptance and the hope that someone will see beyond the flaws and love them for who they truly are.