My Mistake

Gabrielle Aplin's song 'My Mistake' delves into the complex emotions of self-doubt, anxiety, and the acceptance of one's flaws. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons, feeling overwhelmed by their thoughts and fears. The opening lines, 'I got up late again today / And I’m scared of everything,' set the tone for a narrative steeped in anxiety and a sense of being stuck in a cycle of negative thinking. The protagonist's 'dark imagination' and the feeling of wasting away time highlight a deep-seated struggle with mental health.

The chorus, with its repeated questioning of being 'jaded' and the self-labeling as a 'loser,' underscores a profound sense of self-deprecation. However, there's a twist in the narrative where the protagonist finds a peculiar solace in owning their mistakes. The line 'But if I falter / Well, at least it was my mistake' suggests a form of empowerment through acceptance. This acceptance is not about glorifying failure but rather about taking responsibility for one's actions and choices, even if they lead to less-than-ideal outcomes.

Aplin's lyrics also touch on the theme of isolation and the difficulty of accepting help from others. The protagonist's interaction with a friend who tries to offer comfort but is turned away reflects a common struggle for those dealing with mental health issues. The repeated refrain of 'I don’t really care about what anyone says' can be seen as both a defense mechanism and a declaration of independence. Ultimately, 'My Mistake' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and the complex journey of navigating one's mental landscape.