Meaning of "What Am I Becoming?" by Pop Etc

The lyrics of "What Am I Becoming?" delve into the internal struggles of the narrator, who finds themselves caught in a cycle of self-destructive behavior. The song begins with the revelation that they have been oblivious to someone's ill intentions, feeling like they are constantly being watched even when alone. This realization is followed by the acknowledgement that they have been unable to recognize warning signs or quit a dangerous game they are playing. There is an underlying sense of regret, as they come to understand that there is a reason people "die out here," metaphorically suggesting that they are on a path to destruction.

The chorus, with its repetition of the question "What am I becoming?" reflects the narrator's confusion and introspection about their own identity. They have been running from something for so long that the shadows, representing their fears and regrets, have become familiar and comforting. The backward nature of their situation is further emphasized, as they have been scared for so long that they cannot even recall what prompted their initial running. They are trapped in a state of perpetual fear and uncertainty.

Despite someone telling them "that's enough," the narrator feels an inherent need to return to their self-destructive patterns. They recognize that even if they could escape, it would come at a cost they should not be willing to pay. Their inability to perceive the danger around them, symbolized by their inability to smell the smoke before the flames, leads them to lock themselves out again in a fruitless game, implying that they are repeating the same mistakes over and over again.

The lyrics ultimately explore the consequences of one's actions and the self-reflection that comes with it. The narrator questions what they have become and ponders the reasons behind their choices. They are aware that their current way of living is unsustainable and acknowledges that they cannot continue down this path. The song conveys a sense of longing for change and a desire to break free from the cycle of self-destruction.