The lyrics of "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish delve into themes of existential questioning, disillusionment, and a yearning for meaning and purpose. The song's creation likely stemmed from Billie's own personal experiences and reflections on her life and career.
Verse 1: This verse establishes the central theme of the song – questioning one's purpose. The lyrics describe a feeling of loss, a shift from a state of carefree existence ("I used to float") to one of uncertainty and confusion ("I used to know, but I'm not sure now"). The repetition of the question "What was I made for?" emphasizes the overwhelming feeling of doubt and lack of direction.
Verse 2: Here, the lyrics take on a more introspective and metaphoric tone. The imagery of a car ride evokes a sense of fleeting pleasure and superficiality. The realization that the speaker is not truly "real" suggests a feeling of being a product or a construct, losing touch with their authentic self. The reference to being "paid for" implies a feeling of being exploited or used for someone else's benefit.
Chorus: The chorus expresses a deep sense of emotional disconnect and a desire to reconnect with feelings. The lyrics reflect a yearning for authentic experiences and a struggle to make sense of the world around them. The repeated refrain "But someday, I might" hints at a hope for future understanding and growth.
Verse 3: This verse shifts to a more vulnerable and personal space. The speaker describes a sense of emptiness and loss of joy. The confession about sadness and the desire to hide it from their boyfriend underscores the internal struggle and the difficulty of expressing true feelings. The repeated question "What was I made for?" highlights the increasing despair and uncertainty.
Outro: The outro offers a glimmer of hope and a potential solution. The lyrics suggest that finding happiness is a journey, a process of rediscovering oneself and embracing one's true potential. The repetition of "Somethin' I'm made for" emphasizes the belief that purpose and meaning are attainable and that the journey towards finding them is worthwhile.
Overall, "What Was I Made For?" reflects on the complexities of finding meaning in life, the challenges of navigating fame and success, and the importance of staying true to oneself. It's a poignant and relatable exploration of existential questions and a hopeful reminder that even in times of doubt and despair, there is always a possibility of finding your way back to a fulfilling purpose.