false self

WILLOW's song 'false self' delves into the complex journey of self-discovery and the internal battles that come with it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their identity, feeling both detached and attached to their own mind. The opening lines, 'I've decided that I din't wanna testify / I move in silence like an island,' suggest a desire to avoid confrontation and introspection, choosing instead to remain isolated. This isolation, however, is not a peaceful one; it is filled with internal conflict and a sense of being 'bruised and gold like I'm a child,' indicating vulnerability and a longing for authenticity.

The chorus reveals a deep sense of confusion and frustration, with lines like 'I-I wanna crash, feel so attacked, all on that dash and in my own brain.' This imagery of crashing and feeling attacked highlights the mental turmoil and the struggle to reconcile different parts of oneself. The repeated questioning of sanity, 'Am I insane?' underscores the uncertainty and the shifting nature of self-perception. The need for change is palpable, yet there is a resistance to it, as seen in the lines 'I don't wanna change but I need to change.' This dichotomy captures the essence of the human experience, where growth often requires confronting uncomfortable truths.

The song's bridge brings a moment of clarity and determination. 'False self must die, it's no surprise / I wanna know me, but I can't feel the pulse,' signifies a breaking point where the protagonist acknowledges the necessity of shedding their false self to truly understand who they are. This realization is both liberating and daunting, as it involves facing the unknown and embracing vulnerability. WILLOW's raw and emotive delivery adds depth to the lyrics, making 'false self' a powerful anthem for anyone on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.