Sell Out
Dodies Lyrics

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New paper
I need some new paper
To shut you up and maybe start over
Social network tends to make me ill
Stepford wife just made a porno film

I wish I lived in the '90s
And had the life of my dreams

Should I have stayed in the uterus baby?
Or could my sins be redeemed?

Embarrassment
What an embarrassment
Am I a bitch?
Or is this true regret?

My hymen tore and it felt wrong
There's nothing that I could do
My mama said everyone's a phony child
I think I'm one of them too

'cause I sold out
Yeah

I sold out
Again

Overall Meaning

In Dodie's song "Sell Out," she expresses her feelings of disillusionment and regrets, longing for a simpler time in the '90s when life seemed more authentic and genuine. The lyrics reveal a sense of frustration with the modern era, particularly with social media and the pressure to conform. Dodie criticizes the social networking culture, referring to it as something that makes her ill. She also alludes to the shallowness and artificiality of individuals who conform to societal norms, comparing them to Stepford wives who lack authenticity and individuality.

Dodie reflects on her own identity and questions whether she has become a "phony child." She shares her vulnerability and shame by mentioning the tearing of her hymen, a symbol of her loss of innocence. This line suggests a feeling of powerlessness and being unable to control one's own narrative. Dodie's inner turmoil is further amplified by the line where she wonders if she should have stayed in the "uterus," implying that life outside the womb has been disappointing.

The recurring phrase "I sold out" in the chorus indicates a sense of compromise and betraying one's own values for external validation or success. Dodie seems to be grappling with the weight of these choices and feeling conflicted about whether they were worth it.

Overall, "Sell Out" is a deeply introspective song that explores themes of disillusionment, regret, and a yearning for a simpler, more authentic existence.

Line by Line Meaning

New paper
I need a fresh start or a clean slate

I need some new paper
I need something to silence or distract others

To shut you up and maybe start over
To silence you and have a chance to begin anew

Social network tends to make me ill
Online platforms often make me feel unwell or uneasy

Stepford wife just made a porno film
Someone who appears robotic or inauthentic has engaged in scandalous behavior

I wish I lived in the '90s
I long for a simpler or different time period

And had the life of my dreams
And enjoyed the ideal life I imagined for myself

Should I have stayed in the uterus baby?
Should I have remained unborn or not existed?

Or could my sins be redeemed?
Is there a possibility for my wrongdoings to be forgiven or absolved?

Embarrassment
Feeling ashamed or humiliated

What an embarrassment
I'm filled with shame or regret