Meaning of "NLYF X Neck Deep" by Issues

The lyrics of "NLYF X Neck Deep" delve into the complex emotions of the artist, addressing themes of self-doubt, feeling misunderstood, and the struggle to fit in. The artist starts by posing a question, pondering whether others are laughing at them due to their propensity for fear and doubt. This reveals the deep-seated insecurities that haunt the artist. They question whether they are messed up or loud, suggesting a lack of self-acceptance and a constant need for validation.

The artist metaphorically describes their worries as a mess that needs cleaning up. However, their attempts to find solace in addressing their worries only result in exacerbating the problem. The towel used to soak up their worries bursts into flames, symbolizing the overwhelming nature of their anxieties and how they consume the artist's thoughts.

The chorus emphasizes the power of others' words to fuel the artist's internal fire of self-doubt. The artist's conscience is compared to gasoline, suggesting that negative comments and criticism from others can have a significant impact on their mindset. These words become stuck in the artist's mind, leading to feelings of worthlessness and a belief that they would be better off dead.

Despite the pain, the artist encourages themselves and the listeners to start the car and drive as far as they can if they possess the keys and the blood, symbolizing the importance of taking control of one's own life. This represents a desire for freedom and a fresh start. The artist acknowledges the scars they have accumulated, recognizing them as part of their identity and even referring to them as art. This suggests a willingness to embrace their past experiences and find beauty in their hardships.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of needing to fit in and be perfect for others. The artist expresses a longing to be accepted and understood, but they also recognize the need to break free from these expectations. They emphasize the struggle of living in a world where they feel like nothing, yet strive to become accustomed to this feeling. This highlights the artist's resilience and determination to find their own purpose and not give up.

In the closing lines, the artist encourages listeners to make peace with their pain and hold onto their inner flames. This signifies the importance of finding inner strength and not letting hardships extinguish one's passion or drive. The overall message of the song is one of self-acceptance, overcoming self-doubt, and finding the courage to embrace one's flaws and challenges.