Meaning of "Shadow" by Bearstronaut

The lyrics of "Shadow" by Bearstronaut seem to convey a sense of internal conflict within the protagonist. While they express a desire to be a supportive presence for another person, they also acknowledge their own inability to take care of themselves. The repeated motif of being a shadow suggests a willingness to follow, to support, and to be present for someone else. However, the admission that they can't even be there for themselves introduces a layer of vulnerability and self-awareness. The references to wanting to take the other person to new places like Japan or Amsterdam can be seen as a metaphor for providing new experiences and opportunities, but the realization that they can't even do that for themselves highlights a sense of internal struggle and perhaps even insecurity. The chorus, with its repeating lines, reinforces the sense of longing to be a reliable presence for someone, even though the protagonist knows they fall short. Overall, the lyrics paint a complex picture of interpersonal dynamics, self-perception, and the difficulties of balancing one's own needs with those of others.