Her debut album, Mother of My Children, released in September 2018. The album was heralded as a favorite new musician of 2018 by the likes of NPR Music, Stereogum, and Paste, was named as a “Best Rock Album of 2018” by Pitchfork, and garnered further end-of-year praise from FADER, Under The Radar and more.
At the Party With My Brown Friends, her second album, arrived in August 2019.
Understanding
Black Belt Eagle Scout Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Sometimes I can't even hold me
Sometimes I can′t even find time for myself yet
Here I am understanding
In the opening lines, the songwriter acknowledges that society often portrays self-love as something selfish or wrong. The prevailing narrative suggests that we should prioritize loving others before ourselves. However, the lyrics express a personal struggle with this notion. The artist admits that there are times when self-love becomes challenging, as they find it difficult to hold themselves in high regard or give themselves the care and attention they need. This vulnerability and self-awareness show a deep understanding of their own limitations and the societal pressure to put others first.
The next line introduces the notion of limited time. Despite the recognition that self-love is important, the artist reveals that finding time for oneself is a constant struggle. In a fast-paced and demanding world, it can be challenging to carve out personal time and prioritize self-care. This line highlights the artist's desire for self-exploration and personal growth, but also acknowledges the external pressures that make it challenging to achieve.
The words "here I am understanding" form the concluding statement of the song. This phrase suggests a sense of acceptance and comprehension. After acknowledging the struggles with self-love and finding personal time, the artist reveals a profound understanding, which may come from self-reflection and introspection. It implies that despite the hardships faced, the artist has come to comprehend the importance of self-love and self-understanding. This final line serves as an affirmation that despite the difficulties, the artist remains committed to developing a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
Overall, these lyrics express the internal conflict that arises from societal expectations and personal desires for self-love. The songwriter acknowledges the struggle to prioritize themselves amid external pressures, but ultimately arrives at a place of understanding and acceptance. The introspective nature of the lyrics offers a window into the artist's journey of self-discovery and the ongoing pursuit of self-love against societal norms.
Line by Line Meaning
I know it's wrong to love everyone but myself but
I am aware that it is not socially accepted to prioritize my own well-being above others
Sometimes I can't even hold me
There are moments when I struggle to contain or control my own emotions
Sometimes I can't even find time for myself yet
There are occasions when I am so occupied with external matters that I neglect my own needs
Here I am understanding
In spite of the challenges and conflicts within myself, I still strive to comprehend and empathize with others
Writer(s): Katherine Paul
Contributed by Chloe L. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@vanmaeleweiler
Great!🎉
@mopsvonmiez
Yeah. Just yeah.