The meaning of Nobody by Mitski

Mitski's song "Nobody" is a poignant reflection on the theme of loneliness and disconnection. The lyrics, delivered in Mitski's distinctive vocal style, paint a picture of someone struggling to form meaningful connections with others.

The opening lines, "I've been trying to do better / I've been trying to be more like you," suggest a desire to emulate or fit in with the people around her, but it's clear that this attempt at connection is ultimately futile. The repetition of the phrase "nobody" throughout the song drives home the sense of isolation and disconnection.

The chorus, "Nobody likes you when you're down / Nobody likes you when you're up", highlights the Catch-22 nature of human relationships. Even if someone is experiencing a period of success or good fortune, they can still be met with indifference or even hostility by others. This theme is reinforced by the lines "I'll never get away from me / I'll never get away from this," which convey a sense of being trapped in one's own thoughts and emotions.

Throughout the song, Mitski's lyrics are characterized by their honesty and vulnerability, making it easy to relate to her emotional state. The song's minimal instrumentation, featuring primarily piano and vocals, adds to the sense of intimacy and vulnerability, creating a sense of connection with the listener.

Ultimately, "Nobody" is a powerful exploration of the human experience, tackling themes of loneliness, disconnection, and the search for meaningful relationships. Mitski's raw emotion and poetic lyrics bring this song to life, making it a standout track in her discography.