Say Anything
Mariana Trench Lyrics

The lyrics to "Say Anything" by Mariana Trench explore themes of self-doubt, feeling misunderstood, and the struggle to maintain a sense of identity in a relationship. The song speaks specifically about the emotional turmoil experienced when trying to please someone else while losing a sense of oneself.

In the opening lines, the singer expresses confusion about their partner's wants and needs. They admit to not fully understanding their partner's desires but are willing to endure any emotional backlash if it means connecting with them. The line "I can take it if you need to, take this out on someone" suggests a willingness to bear the burdens of the relationship.

The next verse delves into the internal struggle faced by the singer, specifically highlighting feelings of emptiness. The reference to hurting oneself "so I could feel something I know is not alive" hints at the desperation to feel alive, even if it means resorting to self-destructive behavior. It also implies a profound disconnection from one's emotions.

The repeated phrase "That one stings a little, I'm always in the middle" emphasizes the singer's constant sense of being caught in the middle of conflicting emotions or expectations. They openly invite their partner to test them, assuring that regardless of the challenges faced, they will always be there. The line "This is where I scream from" signifies an emotional breaking point, where the singer's true feelings and frustrations are finally being expressed.

The chorus reveals the pain of feeling unseen and the self-inflicted hatred that comes with losing oneself in a relationship. The singer yearns for their partner to see the best version of themselves that hasn't been revealed yet, while also accepting their own self-loathing.

The second verse conveys the pressure the singer feels to meet the demands and expectations of others, which ultimately leads to feelings of anxiety and fear of failure. The concept of everyone wanting a piece of them reflects the artist's experience of being constantly pulled in different directions, resulting in a sense of personal fragmentation.

The bridge suggests a cyclical pattern of emotional turmoil and distance in the singer's relationships. They express their reluctance to speak up or voice their needs, perhaps out of fear of rejection or further disconnection. The lines "This is the hook, take it like I took, I'm shaking like I shook before" convey a sense of resignation and vulnerability, as if they have been down this road before and have come to accept their fate.

In the final chorus, the singer reiterates their willingness to endure the challenges of the relationship but emphasizes the need for their partner to see their true self. The song ends with the assertion that despite the pain and hidden emotions, the singer chooses silence over expressing their inner turmoil.

Overall, "Say Anything" delves into the complexities of relationships, the struggle to maintain a sense of self, and the emotional toll that can come from trying to please others while losing sight of one's own needs and desires.