Meaning of Mess by Noah Kahan

The overall theme of Noah Kahan's song "Mess" is the struggle for self-acceptance and finding meaning in one's life. The song portrays the protagonist's desire to return to a simpler time and place, where he can shed the burdens of his current life and find a sense of peace and happiness. Throughout the song, various standout lyrics contribute to the development of multiple imaginative themes that ultimately tie back to this overarching theme.One standout lyric in the song is, "And I would wipe myself clean of what I knew was unimportant." This lyric suggests the theme of shedding societal expectations and external pressures. The protagonist longs to let go of the things that he feels are holding him back and instead focus on what truly matters to him. This theme explores the idea of self-discovery and prioritizing personal fulfillment over societal norms.Another important lyric is, "I guess the stage was my mask, I forgot the way I looked before I wore it." This lyric delves into the theme of identity and self-expression. The protagonist acknowledges that his life on stage has become a facade, causing him to lose touch with his authentic self. He longs to reconnect with who he was before fame and find a sense of belonging and acceptance.The chorus of the song, "I'm a mess, I'm a mess, oh God, I'm a mess," portrays the theme of self-doubt and the internal struggle for self-acceptance. Despite external success and achievements, the protagonist feels emotionally and mentally overwhelmed. This theme explores the idea that even when everything appears to be going well on the surface, there can still be underlying turmoil and inner demons to overcome.The line, "Now I find comfort in the cold," introduced in the bridge, introduces the theme of seeking solace in isolation. The protagonist finds solace in the emptiness and simplicity of being alone. This theme examines the idea that sometimes, detaching oneself from the world can provide clarity, allowing for self-reflection and personal growth.In conclusion, Noah Kahan's song "Mess" explores the themes of shedding societal expectations, finding one's true identity, struggling with self-acceptance, and seeking solace in isolation. Through various standout lyrics, the song vividly portrays the protagonist's longing for simplicity and inner peace. These imaginative themes contribute to the overarching theme of self-discovery and the search for meaning in one's life. "Mess" serves as a reminder that despite the difficulties and complications we may face, it is possible to find our way back to a place of contentment and self-acceptance.