Meaning of "What's Wrong" by PVRIS

"What's Wrong" delves into the complex emotions of the narrator, who is grappling with a profound disconnect within themselves. The opening line, "Two years gone," suggests a significant period of time has passed, potentially marking a personal transformation or deterioration. The reference to returning as "some bones and so cynical" indicates a loss of vitality and a pervasive sense of disillusionment. The line "This skin don't feel like home, it's all overgrown but you'll never know" further emphasizes the narrator's disconnection from their own identity and the difficulties in expressing their true emotions to others.

The lyrics encompass the struggle to confront one's own reflection, as symbolized by the line "You're takin' the mirror from the wall so I can't see myself at all." This could represent a desire to avoid self-examination and deny the reality of their own emotions. The line "Forget the poems of saints and ghosts, I'm the one I fear the most" reveals the narrator's internal battle, acknowledging that they are their own source of fear and self-doubt. The reference to "crying wolf" suggests a tendency to exaggerate their struggles, perhaps hinting at their own lack of trust in their emotions or the habit of seeking attention.

Throughout the song, there is a rejection of others' perceptions and expectations. The insistence on not needing a metaphor to convey their misery reflects a refusal to be misunderstood or misrepresented. This rejection of metaphorical language emphasizes a desire for direct communication, wanting others to understand their pain without recourse to elaborate explanations. The repeated statement "No, I never sold my soul" asserts the narrator's refusal to compromise their integrity or conform to societal expectations.

The struggle in the lyrics is not only internal but also external, indicated by the line "You got my back against the wall, and now I can't ever get comfortable." This suggests being trapped and unable to find solace or freedom. The reference to a "goddamn corpse in a centerfold" paints a vivid image of feeling objectified or reduced to a lifeless state. The constant repetition of the line "No, I never sold my soul" further reinforces the narrator's determination to retain their authenticity and resist any form of compromise.

Overall, "What's Wrong" explores the turmoil of self-doubt, cynicism, and feeling trapped within oneself. It portrays the struggle to maintain a sense of identity and integrity while managing the expectations and perceptions of others. The lyrics speak to the universal human experience of questioning oneself, battling internal demons, and striving for authenticity.