"Like A Skin" by Sara Groves is a song that explores the theme of personal growth and transformation. The lyrics use metaphors of natural creatures, such as the butterfly and the snake, to convey the idea of shedding old ways and embracing new ones. The song begins with the line "The butterfly can just look back," suggesting that the butterfly has moved on from its previous form as a worm. It highlights the freedom and joy of embracing change and becoming something different. Similarly, the lyrics mention how the snake gets tired of its old, uncomfortable skin and decides to leave it behind. This signifies the desire for personal growth and the necessity to leave behind old habits, beliefs, and identities that no longer serve a purpose. Throughout the song, the narrator expresses their longing for tangible evidence of change in their life. They are yearning for some kind of proof that they have transformed or evolved into a new person. This highlights the struggle and doubt that often accompany personal growth journeys. The chorus emphasizes the frustration and impatience with the slow pace of change. The narrator feels as though they keep waking up to the same old problems and obstacles, and they long for a new version of themselves. The song concludes with a plea for help from a "new man" to assist the narrator in leaving behind their current sense of self. They want to shed their old skin, just like a snake, and leave it on the ground. This signifies a desire to fully embrace the process of transformation and become someone new. Overall, "Like A Skin" beautifully captures the longing for change, the frustrations and doubts that come with personal growth, and the aspiration to shed old ways and become a new and improved version of oneself.
