Meaning of What Shouldn’t I Be? by Sampha

Unpacking the Depth of Human Emotion: A Exploration of "What Shouldn’t I Be?" by Sampha

Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

The song "What Shouldn’t I Be?" by Sampha is a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. With its poignant lyrics and introspective tone, the song delves into the themes of self-reflection, personal growth, and the importance of family connections. As I reflect on the song’s meaning, I am reminded of my own experiences with self-doubt and the struggles that come with growing up.

The opening lines of the song, "I’m waking up in my own skin / Thinking ’bout myself and what I can win", resonated deeply with me. The protagonist’s acknowledgment of their tendency to focus on themselves and emphasize the idea that they can always come home, "where I’ll never be alone", suggests a desire for a sense of belonging and stability. I have experienced moments of isolation and loneliness, where all I could think about was myself and what I could do to feel better. The song’s themes of self-reflection and introspection hit home for me.

Introspection and Self-Doubt

The chorus, "What shouldn’t I be?", is a powerful call to introspection. The repeated questioning implies a sense of self-doubt, a desire to examine one’s actions and behavior, and ask oneself what can be improved. This kind of self-reflection is crucial in personal growth, as it allows us to identify our flaws and work towards becoming better versions of ourselves. I have struggled with self-doubt in the past, but this song has encouraged me to acknowledge and confront those doubts.

The Importance of Family Connections

The second verse introduces the concept of family ties, with the poignant line "Putting them ’round my neck", which can be interpreted as both an embrace and a burden. The protagonist’s feelings of being "high", possibly indicating a sense of being overwhelmed or disconnected from reality, serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of family relationships. The lines "Challenges come and go / But someone’s got to know" suggest a deep need for human connection and support during difficult times. I have learned that family is often there to provide that support, and it’s essential to nurture those relationships.

A Shift towards Empathy

The song’s second chorus, "And what shouldn’t you be?", shifts the focus from the protagonist to addressing someone else, asking the listener to examine their own actions and choices. This line is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding towards others. I have experienced moments of frustration and anger towards loved ones, but this song has encouraged me to put myself in their shoes and consider their perspective.

Regret and Personal Growth

The third verse, "My brother been waiting months for me / I didn’t even call", is a haunting reminder of the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones. The protagonist’s regret and longing to reconnect serve as a powerful lesson about the consequences of neglecting those relationships. I have learned that relationships require effort and dedication to thrive, and it’s essential to prioritize them.

A Newfound Understanding

The outro, "It’s not all about me", is a powerful conclusion to the song’s themes of self-reflection and personal growth. The repeated question, "What shouldn’t I be?", now carries a new meaning, one that acknowledges the need to consider the needs and feelings of others. This realization is a crucial step in personal growth, as it encourages us to prioritize empathy, understanding, and connection with others.

In conclusion, "What Shouldn’t I Be?" by Sampha is a thought-provoking exploration of human emotion, encouraging us to reflect on our actions, prioritize family connections, and cultivate empathy towards others. As I continue to explore the depths of human experience, I am reminded of the importance of self-awareness, self-reflection, and connection with others. This song has encouraged me to acknowledge my flaws, confront my doubts, and nurture meaningful relationships – a lesson that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

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