Meaning of "Otherwise" by Morcheeba

The lyrics of "Otherwise" delve into the idea of societal expectations and the pressure to conform to a certain image. The narrator feels that they were brought into a situation solely to showcase their appearance, but when faced with the demanding realities ("the crunch"), they retreat in disgrace. This highlights the conflict between how we present ourselves and the true nature of who we are.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of needing to be seen playing the game. This refers to the facade people often put on to fit societal expectations and maintain a certain image. The line "I thought that you were wise, but you were otherwise" suggests that the narrator has discovered that the person they believed to be wise or genuine is, in fact, just another player in this game. It implies a sense of disillusionment when confronted with the realization that appearances can be deceiving.

Furthermore, the lyrics depict a desire to impress someone, represented by wanting to "take up your love." However, the love is described as being locked in a vault, symbolizing the difficulties in accessing or reciprocating that love. This could symbolize the emotional barriers put up by the object of the narrator's affection or the challenges they face in forming a true connection.

The contrasting honesty and polish are also explored in the lyrics. The narrator claims to be brutally honest when they open their mouth, while the other person's teeth are "beautifully polished." This juxtaposition suggests that the other person presents themselves in a polished and flawless manner, leaving no room for vulnerability or honesty. The narrator acknowledges that they can't expect genuine love from someone who only presents a perfected image.

Overall, the lyrics of "Otherwise" explore themes of disillusionment, societal pressure, and the contrast between appearances and truth. It highlights the sometimes painful realization that things are not always as they seem and that conformity and playing the game can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and compromise.