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https://songmeaning.ai/songs/Tom-odell-better
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'Better' by Tom Odell explores themes of self-improvement and yearning for acceptance and love. The lyrics depict a journey of trying to change oneself to meet someone else's expectations, only to face disappointment and unreciprocated feelings.
Tom Odell's 'Better' delves into the universal theme of self-improvement and the desire to be loved and accepted by someone. The protagonist of the song narrates a story of winning a race, but not receiving the expected recognition from their significant other. This sets the stage for a narrative of trying to change oneself to fit another's ideals.
The emotional journey in the song's lyrics reflects the protagonist's internal struggle of trying to be 'better' for their loved one. The repeated lines 'I’m tryna be better, I’m tryna be more' emphasize the character's desperation to be worthy of love. The sense of rejection and unfulfilled efforts is palpable in the lines 'And I pushed my soul on every street, Yeah but you didn’t come and you didn’t see.'
Tom Odell's intent in 'Better' seems to be to convey the vulnerability and raw emotion of yearning for someone's love and approval. The song captures the impact of unrequited love on the psyche, as seen in the lines 'And that all you saw were broken dreams.' Listeners may resonate with the universal desire to be loved for who they are, and the pressure to change oneself to meet external expectations.
In conclusion, 'Better' by Tom Odell is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships and self-worth. The song's narrative of striving to be 'better' for someone else while facing rejection highlights the universal struggle of seeking validation and acceptance in love.
"To my time yeah I won the race, But you didn’t smile, you didn’t say"
This quote illustrates the protagonist's initial success and the lack of validation from their significant other, setting the tone for the theme of unreciprocated efforts.
"I’m tryna be somebody that you could love, love"
The repeated desire to be loved for who they are showcases the protagonist's yearning for acceptance and affection, driving their actions in the song.
"And I tried to show you how it could be, And that all you saw were broken dreams"
This quote reflects the disappointment and disillusionment of the protagonist, who tried to demonstrate their potential to their loved one but only received negative feedback.
"I’m tryna stand taller, I’m tryna get on"
The aspiration to 'stand taller' symbolizes the character's attempt to improve themselves physically and emotionally to meet the expectations of their partner.