Lyrics: That’s Me by ABBA
Are you sure you wanna hear more What if I ain't worth the while Not the style you'd be lookin' for If I'm sweet tonight Things look different in the morning light I'm jealous and I'm proud If you hurt my feelings I'll cry out loud I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry That's me Are you sure you wanna hear more Would I be the one you seek Mild and meek like the girl next door Don't you realise I may be an angel in disguise It's lonely to be free But I'm not a man's toy, I'll never be I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry That's me I don't believe in fairy-tales Sweet nothings in my ear But I do believe in sympathy That's me, you see Are you sure you wanna hear more Won't you have a drink with me Just to see you're not really sore I can't help my ways I'm just not the girl to hide my face I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry That's me There's a special love Like an eagle flying with a dove I'll find it in the end If I keep on searchin', but until then I'm Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you'd-marry That's me
Unveiling Individuality: The Meaning Behind “That’s Me”
A Candid Self-Portrait
“That’s Me” is a song that stands out for its honest and unapologetic self-reflection. The lyrics offer a candid glimpse into the narrator’s true self, highlighting both strengths and vulnerabilities. From the opening lines, there’s a sense of hesitation: “Are you sure you wanna hear more?” This question sets the tone for a song that explores self-awareness and the courage it takes to present oneself authentically, even when it might not align with others’ expectations.
Rejecting Stereotypes and Embracing Freedom
The recurring refrain, “I’m Carrie not-the-kind-of-girl-you’d-marry, that’s me,” captures the spirit of independence at the heart of the song. The narrator rejects the traditional stereotypes of femininity—”mild and meek like the girl next door”—and instead embraces her complexity and independence. There’s an acknowledgment that her honesty, pride, and refusal to be someone’s “toy” may set her apart, but it’s a distinction she wears with pride.
Longing for Love, But On Her Own Terms
While the narrator values her freedom, there’s also a gentle vulnerability beneath the assertiveness. She confesses to feeling lonely at times and expresses hope for a love that is uniquely her own: “There’s a special love, like an eagle flying with a dove, I’ll find it in the end if I keep on searching.” This line beautifully illustrates the balance between self-sufficiency and the universal yearning for connection—a love that matches her spirit, rather than confines it.
Empowerment Through Authenticity
Ultimately, “That’s Me” is a celebration of self-acceptance. It encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, to be honest about who they are, and to seek relationships that honor that truth. The song’s narrative is empowering, reminding us that true happiness comes from being unapologetically ourselves.
Song Credits
Songwriters: Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Stig Anderson
Release Year: 1976
Label: Polar Music