Meaning of "My Best Wasn't Good Enough" by Anouk

The lyrics of "My Best Wasn't Good Enough" delve into the feelings of inadequacy and disappointment in a relationship. The narrator opens with a sense of optimism, claiming to feel better and fine. However, they quickly reveal that despite giving their all, their best wasn't good enough. This line can be interpreted as a general feeling of not meeting expectations or a specific reference to their partner's lack of satisfaction.

The narrator expresses the need for time to wonder and heal, suggesting that the end of the relationship has left them in emotional turmoil. They admit to not knowing what they truly feel, indicating a state of confusion resulting from the disappointment they have experienced.

The repetition of "tick, tock" and the references to time highlight the sense of stagnation and the lingering pain in the narrator's heart. They acknowledge that the pain aches, hurts, and burns them, emphasizing the depth of their emotional distress. Despite this suffering, they defiantly state that they would go through it all again, perhaps suggesting a willingness to endure the pain for the sake of love.

The lyrics also touch on themes of betrayal and self-preservation. The narrator warns their former partner not to call them "baby" or pretend to care. They urge them to save their apologies for themselves when they face their own consequences. This can be seen as a response to feeling deceived and betrayed, indicating a desire for the other person to suffer the consequences of their actions.

The lyrics conclude with the narrator reflecting on their past beliefs. They confess to once believing that there was nothing out there for those who feel lost and lonely. However, a voice in their head kept reminding them that they are not alone in these struggles. This realization adds depth to the narrator's emotions, suggesting a journey of self-discovery and finding solace in the shared experiences of others.

Overall, "My Best Wasn't Good Enough" explores the themes of inadequacy, disappointment, pain, confusion, and self-preservation in a relationship. It highlights the complexities of emotions and the willingness to endure heartache for the sake of love.