Song meaning of ‎g‎irl i’ve always been by Olivia Rodrigo

The song "girl i've always been" by Olivia Rodrigo explores the theme of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself despite the opinions and judgments of others. The lyrics depict a situation where the protagonist is being criticized and accused of changing by someone close to them. The protagonist is being blamed for their actions and is accused of being cruel and different from who they used to be.

However, the protagonist remains steadfast in their identity and refuses to conform to the expectations of others. They assert that they are the same person they have always been, despite the mistakes they may have made or the flaws they possess. The lyrics convey a sense of resilience and self-assurance, as the protagonist acknowledges their imperfections but refuses to let them define their worth.

The chorus emphasizes the protagonist's complex relationships and experiences. They describe having "captors" they call friends, suggesting that they may have been influenced or manipulated by certain individuals. The mention of "panic rooms inside my head" alludes to the internal struggles and anxieties the protagonist faces. Despite these challenges, they assert that they are still the same person they have always been, unapologetically embracing their flaws and mistakes.

In the second verse, the protagonist defends themselves against accusations of acting differently. They assert that they have always been consistent in their behavior and that the other person should have known what they were getting into from the beginning. The lyrics suggest that the other person may have had unrealistic expectations or failed to truly understand the protagonist.

The song concludes with the affirmation that the protagonist is true to themselves, even if it means being a "candle in the wind" that can both illuminate and extinguish. This line suggests that the protagonist's authenticity may be both empowering and intimidating to others. Ultimately, the song celebrates the protagonist's unwavering sense of self and refusal to conform to societal expectations.