Meaning of Obsessed by Mariah Carey

In Mariah Carey's iconic song "Obsessed," she addresses a protagonist who is unreasonably infatuated with her. The overall theme of the song revolves around the subject's obsessive behavior and the artist's frustration with their relentless pursuit. Let's delve into the imaginative themes that can be derived from several standout lyrics in the song.The opening lines, "Why are you so obsessed with me? Boy, I wanna know," set the stage for the song's theme. They highlight the artist's curiosity about why this person is fixated on her, knowing that their claims of a romantic relationship are baseless. This lyric establishes the theme of self-reflection and the contemplation of personal boundaries. It explores the idea of how others' obsessions can often force us to evaluate our own sense of worth and discover the power to assert ourselves.As the song progresses, the refrain, "Lying that you're sexing me, when everybody knows," offers a deeper look into the theme of deception and manipulation. The artist acknowledges that the subject is fabricating a connection that doesn't exist, attempting to tarnish her reputation by spreading lies. This lyric alludes to the theme of falsehoods and the impact they can have on one's personal and professional life. The artist, in turn, becomes a symbol of resilience and empowerment, as she refuses to succumb to the subject's manipulation."It's clear that you're upset with me" is another lyric that explores the theme of emotional turmoil within the subject. The song subtly hints at the subject's envy, possibly arising from their inability to possess what the artist represents – beauty, success, and freedom. Through this theme, "Obsessed" becomes a meditation on the destructive power of envy and the lengths people might go to in order to invalidate or belittle the accomplishments of others.In the break section, where Carey confronts the subject directly, she mentions, "Like, super obsessed. Why you so obsessed with me?" This lyric implies the theme of self-discovery and encourages the listener to examine their own behaviors. It suggests that the subject's obsession is not about the artist herself but rather a reflection of their own insecurities and unfulfilled desires. By highlighting this theme, the song encourages the audience to reflect on their own actions and motivations, inspiring personal growth and self-awareness.The closing lines, "Finally found a girl that you couldn't impress. Last man on the earth, still couldn't get this. You're delusional, you're delusional," crystallize the overarching theme of the song. Through these lyrics, a theme of self-confidence and triumph emerges. The artist affirms her self-worth and asserts that no amount of obsession or manipulation can shake her foundation. This theme speaks to the power of self-assurance and self-love, giving the audience a sense of strength and resilience to face their own detractors.In conclusion, Mariah Carey's "Obsessed" presents a multi-faceted exploration of obsession, manipulation, self-reflection, envy, personal growth, and triumph. Each lyric contributes to the development of these themes, guiding the listener through a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Ultimately, the song encourages individuals to set boundaries, recognize their own worth, and rise above the destructive influences of others. By engaging with the imaginative themes within "Obsessed," listeners can find inspiration to cultivate their own self-confidence and embrace their unique identities.