Liability

Lorde's song 'Liability' is a poignant reflection on the feelings of inadequacy and the fear of being too much for others. The lyrics convey a narrative of rejection and self-doubt, with the artist grappling with the pain of not being accepted for who she is. The opening lines set a scene of heartbreak, with Lorde being told by a lover that their relationship was a mistake, likening her emotional intensity to a 'storm' and 'poison.' This rejection leads her to seek solace in her own company, the 'girl that I love,' which can be interpreted as a metaphor for self-love or self-acceptance.

The chorus of 'Liability' echoes the sentiment of being overwhelming to others, as Lorde sings about being considered a 'liability' and how people eventually pull away from her. This refrain captures the artist's vulnerability and the loneliness that comes with it. The song suggests a cycle of excitement and abandonment, where people are drawn to her for the very qualities that they later find too intense, leading to a feeling of being used and discarded like a 'toy.'

Despite the melancholic tone, 'Liability' also carries an undercurrent of empowerment. Lorde acknowledges that while her intensity might drive people away, there is strength in recognizing her worth independently of others' approval. The final lines, 'They're gonna watch me disappear into the Sun,' can be seen as a declaration of self-assertion, as she chooses to embrace her true self, even if it means walking alone. The song resonates with anyone who has felt misunderstood or too intense for the world around them, and it serves as a reminder that self-acceptance is a powerful act of resilience.