Meaning of "Smilin' !!" by Pascale Picard

The lyrics of "Smilin' !!" delve into the internal turmoil of a person who is feeling disconnected from the world and struggling to find a sense of purpose and belonging. The narrator grapples with the weight of societal expectations to always appear happy and successful, even when they are crumbling on the inside. This pressure to maintain a facade leaves them feeling unheard and unseen by those around them, leading to a sense of isolation and exhaustion. The repetition of feeling like they're "not gonna make it" reflects a deep-rooted anxiety and despair about their current situation. Despite these struggles, the narrator finds a bittersweet realization that this might actually be a turning point for them, an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. The constant theme of needing to "smile" and make "bad jokes" as a way to cope further highlights the internal conflict between authenticity and the need to please others. Overall, the lyrics speak to the universal struggle of balancing personal struggles with societal expectations, and the journey towards finding true happiness and fulfillment.