The song "GMF" by John Grant explores themes of self-doubt, anger, and the struggle to find acceptance and love. "GMF" stands for "Greatest Motherfucker," and the lyrics depict the internal turmoil of the narrator's thoughts and emotions. The song begins by acknowledging the narrator's difficult nature. They admit to talking too much, overanalyzing things, and relying on overthinking as a coping mechanism. The narrator also expresses their frustration with one-sided conversations and their dislike for the idea of two-way streets in relationships. Despite their flaws, the narrator confidently claims to be the greatest individual you will ever meet. This statement can be seen as a defense mechanism or a way to maintain some level of self-worth amidst their struggles. It also challenges the listener's preconceived notions about the narrator's character. The song delves into the narrator's feelings of anger, possibly stemming from a combination of their own self-perceived inadequacies and the way others make them feel. The line "You think I hate myself, but it's you I hate because you have the nerve to make me feel" signifies the narrator's frustrations directed towards others who contribute to their negative emotions. The lyrics also touch on the narrator feeling like they are part of a movie and often cast as the underdog. They contemplate who could play their character and even joke about using Richard Burton's corpse. This line could reflect a sense of detachment from reality and a tendency to fantasize or project themselves onto different situations. The narrative then shifts towards the narrator's struggle with their identity and conflicting emotions. They mention feeling angry but also indicate that others think they hate themselves. The mention of not being attracted to males juxtaposed with being advised to learn to love oneself adds another layer of internal conflict and uncertainty. In the final part of the song, the narrator acknowledges the importance of self-love but also highlights the challenges of accepting oneself. They refer to Dr. Frankenstein, known for creating a monster, hinting at the struggle to create and define their own identity. Despite this, the narrator reiterates their self-proclaimed greatness and urges others to love them while it is still considered taboo. Overall, "GMF" can be interpreted as a complex exploration of self-esteem, frustration, and longing for acceptance and understanding. The narrator's confident assertions of being the greatest provide a glimpse into their desire to find self-worth, even if it is a defense mechanism against their internal struggles. The song challenges societal norms and preconceptions, urging listeners to embrace their true selves and find happiness.
