The song "Say What You Will" by James Blake explores themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and embracing one's individuality. The lyrics suggest that the narrator has experienced both acceptance and rejection throughout their life. In the first verse, the narrator reflects on their past, mentioning being normal and ostracized. They mention watching their younger self metaphorically die, implying a loss of innocence or identity. They also touch on the dynamics of popularity, where they were able to provide humor but also faced warning signs from the popular guys. The chorus highlights the narrator's resilience and determination to stay true to themselves despite what others may say or do. They acknowledge that people will continue to judge and criticize them regardless, emphasizing the futility of trying to please everyone. The second verse expresses the narrator's self-empowerment. They reveal that they don't rely on superpowers or external validation to find their way. They have learned to accept their place and find contentment without becoming bitter. Though they may not meet the expectations of psychopaths (perhaps referring to individuals with twisted expectations or unrealistic standards), they appreciate the connections they have with smaller, more genuine audiences. The chorus is repeated several times throughout the song, emphasizing the narrator's defiance against judgment and their resolve to stay true to themselves. Overall, "Say What You Will" is a song about embracing one's individuality, accepting both the highs and lows of life, and finding strength and self-worth within oneself rather than seeking validation from others. It promotes the idea of being confident in one's uniqueness and disregarding the opinions of others who may try to bring them down.
