Meaning of Still Sane by Lorde

In Lorde's hauntingly beautiful song "Still Sane," the prevailing theme revolves around the concept of identity and the struggle to maintain it in the face of fame and societal pressures. The lyrics delve into the singer's personal journey of self-discovery and the challenges that come with being in the public eye. Through a series of standout lyrics, the song presents various imaginative themes that shed light on the complexities of fame and the desire to stay true to oneself.The opening lines of the song, "Today is my birthday and I'm riding high. Hair is dripping, hiding that I'm terrified," immediately set the tone for the rest of the piece. The contrasting emotions of excitement and fear hint at the dichotomy between the public persona and the private self. This lyric underscores the theme of maintaining a façade while internally grappling with the pressures of success.Another lyric that stands out is "I won't be her, tripping over onstage." This line suggests the challenge of living up to certain expectations and not succumbing to the pressure to conform. It addresses the theme of self-acceptance and the refusal to fit into a predetermined mold. This powerful lyric embodies the idea of staying true to oneself and resisting the urge to change for the sake of others.The verse "All work and no play never made me lose it. All business, all day keeps me up a level. All work and no play keeps me on the new shit, yeah" brings forth a theme that explores the sacrifices made in the pursuit of success. While dedication and hard work are essential for achieving one's goals, this lyric suggests that an excessive focus on work may lead to a loss of self or a disconnection from the world. It prompts the listener to reflect on the importance of balance and maintaining a sense of joy and playfulness even amidst ambition.A particularly thought-provoking lyric is found in the bridge: "Only bad people live to see their likeness set in stone. What does that make me?" This lyric delves into the notion of legacy and the fear of being remembered for the wrong reasons. It raises the theme of morality and the desire to be seen as a good person despite the potential pitfalls that come with fame. It explores the inner turmoil an individual may experience when they question their actions and how they will be remembered.Overall, "Still Sane" encapsulates the struggles of maintaining one's identity in the face of external pressures and societal expectations. These standout lyrics offer unique and imaginative insights into the overarching theme of the song. Lorde artfully expresses the fear, anxiety, and desire for self-preservation that can accompany fame. Through her introspective and introspective lyrics, she invites listeners to reflect on their own identity and the lengths they would go to stay true to themselves. "Still Sane" serves as a powerful reminder that though the trappings of success may be seductive, it is essential not to lose sight of who we truly are.