Only Child

Sasha Alex Sloan's song "Only Child" delves into the emotional landscape of growing up without siblings. Through poignant lyrics, Sloan paints a vivid picture of the loneliness and longing that can accompany being an only child. The song imagines the different dynamics and relationships she might have had if she had siblings, whether a sister or a brother. This hypothetical exploration serves as a way to express the deep-seated desire for companionship and shared experiences that are often taken for granted by those with siblings.

The lyrics are rich with imagery and hypothetical scenarios, such as going to a bar with a sister to talk about heartbreak or having a brother who would help with their father as they age. These imagined relationships highlight the emotional support and camaraderie that siblings can provide. Sloan's use of specific details, like sharing the same brown eyes as their mother or sneaking in through the same back door, adds a layer of intimacy and realism to these fantasies, making the listener feel the weight of what is missing in her life.

Culturally, the song taps into a universal theme of family and the human need for connection. It also subtly addresses the societal expectations and pressures that come with being an only child, such as the responsibility of caring for aging parents alone. Sloan's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pang of loneliness or the yearning for a deeper familial bond. The song is a heartfelt ode to the siblings she never had, and it beautifully captures the essence of what it means to navigate life as an only child.