The song "Anyone But Me" by Joy Crookes explores the internal struggle and conflicting emotions within oneself. The lyrics portray a constant battle between self-acceptance and the desire to escape from one's own thoughts and feelings. The narrator expresses their longing to be somewhere else, away from their own mind and its controlling voice. They yearn for love or to be left alone, feeling that being lonely is better than being trapped inside their own head. The lyrics also touch upon the theme of self-improvement and personal growth through therapy. The narrator mentions being in therapy for seven years, trying to piece together their memories and overcome their doubts. They describe themselves as their own worst enemy, with a constant inner conflict that impacts their identity. The song implies that the narrator's self-image and behavior shift between different extremes. They refer to themselves as a "raver, a likkle libertine" and also as a "bouncer to my dopamine." These contrasts suggest a struggle with finding balance and stability within oneself. The chorus emphasizes the plea for either love or solitude, as long as it means escaping the turmoil within. The lyrics suggest that the narrator has been through difficult times for so long that finding happiness seems almost sacred. Overall, "Anyone But Me" delves into the complexity of one's relationship with themselves and the constant battle between self-acceptance and the desire for change. It acknowledges the difficulties of understanding and navigating one's own identity, while also expressing a longing for freedom and peace of mind.
