If You Must

Nirvana's song 'If You Must' delves into the complexities of identity, ego, and societal pressures. The lyrics open with a declaration of basic abilities—reading, writing, and breathing—followed by a contemplation of greed and ego. This juxtaposition suggests a struggle between self-awareness and the external pressures that shape one's identity. The lines 'Is it me, or my ego' and 'Is it me, or my attitude' highlight the internal conflict between genuine self-expression and the influence of one's ego or societal expectations.

The chorus introduces the theme of belonging and the extremes one might go to fit in. The repetition of 'the extremes' and the words 'practicing, perfecting, pressuring' emphasize the relentless effort and stress involved in conforming to societal norms. This part of the song reflects the band's critique of the pressures to conform and the toll it takes on individual identity. The phrase 'unto me' suggests a personal burden, indicating that these pressures are internalized and deeply felt.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics 'I will wade, in the fire' and 'to explain, your asylum' evoke a sense of enduring hardship to understand or justify one's place in the world. The mention of 'idle times, analyzing' and 'we'll compare, all our sightings' points to a reflective process, where individuals scrutinize their experiences and perceptions. The closing line, 'I speak, to hear, my voice,' underscores the importance of self-expression amidst the chaos of external influences. This song captures the essence of Nirvana's grunge ethos, characterized by raw emotion and a critique of societal norms.