Anyone But Me

Citizen Soldier's song 'Anyone But Me' delves deep into the torment of self-loathing and the desperate desire to escape one's own identity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with severe body image issues and mental anguish. The recurring motif of the 'mirror, mirror on the wall' serves as a haunting reminder of the protagonist's constant confrontation with their reflection, which only amplifies their feelings of disgust and inadequacy. This fairy tale reference, typically associated with vanity and beauty, is subverted to highlight the pain and self-hatred the individual feels when they look at themselves.

The song's narrative is a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the internal battle many face with eating disorders and self-harm. Lines like 'Binge and purge in bathroom stalls' and 'Skipping meals is not enough' reveal the extreme measures taken in an attempt to conform to societal standards of beauty. The protagonist's belief that being 'skinny' would equate to being 'loved' underscores the toxic relationship between self-worth and physical appearance. The repeated phrase 'I can't take it' emphasizes the overwhelming nature of these struggles, suggesting a breaking point is near.

The chorus encapsulates the profound sense of isolation and entrapment felt by the protagonist. The idea that 'who I am is just a cage' and the contemplation of death as a release from this torment speaks to the severity of their mental state. The longing to be 'someone else, anyone but me' is a poignant cry for relief from the relentless self-criticism and emotional pain. Citizen Soldier's powerful lyrics and emotive delivery bring to light the often hidden and stigmatized issues of mental health, urging listeners to empathize and understand the depth of these struggles.