"I Am" by James Arthur is a self-reflective song that highlights the complexities and contradictions of one's identity. Throughout the song, Arthur portrays himself as both a problem and a solution, both a hero and a villain, suggesting that our identities are not always clear-cut or easily defined. The chorus emphasizes the idea that people will believe whatever they want to believe about him, and he has no control over that. He acknowledges that it's too late to change people's minds and decides to let them decide for themselves what to believe. The verses highlight Arthur's various personas, from "the killer" to "the preacher" to "the broken law." He suggests that he has both positive and negative qualities and has paved the way for others in both good and bad ways. The bridge, "Who am I to tell you what you think you see? Ain't my business to tell you what you think of me," further emphasizes the idea that our identities are subjective and can be interpreted differently by others. Overall, the song suggests that our identities are complex and multifaceted, and ultimately, it's up to others to decide what they want to believe about us.
