NOT OK

The song explores the idea of embracing a darker side when falling for someone. The lyrics show a mix of excitement and danger, painting a picture of a love that feels thrilling but also a little scary. It captures the complexities of attraction, where you can feel both invincible and vulnerable at the same time. The narrator is drawn to this side of themselves that they often keep hidden, creating a push-and-pull dynamic in the relationship.

Verse 1

Inside every one of us, a shadow side
I call it my better side
I call it the call-me-up-if-you-wanna-feel-better side
I'll put on my suit and tie to emphasize

This opening verse sets the tone for the song. The idea of a "shadow side" suggests that everyone has parts of themselves they hide. The narrator refers to this side as the "better side," hinting that it might be the more fun or wild version of themselves. When they talk about putting on a suit and tie, it feels like they’re ready to impress or step into a different persona, which ties into the themes of duality in relationships.

Chorus

Hey, I'm not okay
I like the darker side of me, that part of me
Comes out to play when I'm with you, you

In the chorus, the narrator openly admits they’re not okay, which is a raw and honest confession. They embrace their darker side, suggesting that this part of them is only unleashed in the presence of this person. It’s almost like they feel alive when they’re together, but it also hints at a struggle with their mental state, showing how love can bring out both good and bad feelings.

Verse 2

Oh my god, I feel invincible
And when the sun comes up, I feel despicable
And when my heart slows down, will you pick me up?
But we can pause for now, I think I said enough, uh

This verse contrasts feelings of invincibility with feelings of despicability. The excitement of being with this person makes the narrator feel powerful, but as day breaks, those feelings shift to shame or regret. The mention of needing someone to pick them up hints at vulnerability and dependence. It shows that while love can bring joy, it can also lead to darker moments, creating a complex emotional landscape.

Chorus

Hey, I'm not okay
I like the darker side of me, that part of me
Comes out to play when I'm with you, you

Repeating the chorus reinforces the central theme of the song. It emphasizes the narrator’s acceptance of their darker nature and how it’s amplified when they’re with this person. This repetition also highlights the intensity of their feelings, making it clear that this isn’t just a passing phase; it’s a deep-seated part of their experience.

Bridge

Hey, give me a sip of it
It's 1 in the morning
Got these wheels rolling
It's 4 in the morning
All over the city

The bridge captures a late-night vibe, suggesting spontaneity and a sense of adventure. The wheels rolling creates a feeling of movement, as if they’re caught up in a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. This part of the song feels a bit more carefree, contrasting with the heavier themes explored earlier. It’s about living in the moment, even if that moment is messy or chaotic.

Outro

Oh my god, I feel invincible
And when the sun comes up, I feel despicable
Hey, I'm not okay
It's like a hammer to the brain, all my insane
Comes out to play when I'm with you, you

The outro circles back to the feelings of invincibility and despicability. By repeating these lines, it leaves listeners with a sense of unresolved tension. It’s as if the narrator is stuck in this cycle of highs and lows, unable to fully escape the chaos that love brings. This ending reinforces the idea that while love can feel powerful, it can also lead to a struggle with self-identity and mental health.

Closing Thoughts

"NOT OK" really captures the wild ride that love can be. It’s not just about the highs; it also digs into the lows and the darker sides that come out when someone feels deeply connected to another person. The catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics make it relatable, showing that love isn’t always straightforward , it can be thrilling, messy, and a bit dangerous.