Meaning of "What Happened To Ya Part 1" by Ian Brown

The lyrics of "What Happened To Ya Part 1" by Ian Brown seem to address the theme of losing oneself in pursuit of external validation and materialistic ideals. The speaker observes someone who is consumed by their image and the perception of others, creating a facade that is not genuine. This person seems to have lost sight of who they truly are, chasing after illusions and superficial desires. The imagery of "walk on water" suggests an almost god-like complex fueled by the approval of others, while missing the real essence of life represented by the tide they have missed. The mention of burying one's face like an ostrich could symbolize denial or avoidance of reality. Overall, the lyrics reflect a sense of disillusionment and questioning of identity in a world that prioritizes image over authenticity.