The One by Jorja Smith Lyrics Meaning – Unveiling the Layers of Self-realization and Freedom
Lyrics
If it feels right, yeah
When you try
Oh, oh
I’m tryin’
I’m just, I’m just
I been out here tryin’ to see my homecomin’
And of course, somebody’s always gonna say somethin’
Try and shoot me down for voicin’ my own opinion
Triggerin’ a part of me that’s always been indifferent
And I know that we have asked for change
Don’t be scared to put the fears to shame
When you know what you got
Sacrifice ain’t that hard
Feel like dependin’ on me
Sometimes we ain’t meant to be free
When you know what you got
Sacrifice ain’t that hard
Feel like dependin’ on me
Sometimes we ain’t meant to be free
Open up this letter, you ain’t tryin’ to be
You been blind to the subject but not blind to me
And I know that this margin ain’t too small for me
Not too real, not too much anymore, not alone
And I know that we have asked for change
Don’t be scared to put the fears to shame
When you know what you got
Sacrifice ain’t that hard
Feel like dependin’ on me
Sometimes we ain’t meant to be free
When you know what you got
Sacrifice ain’t that hard
Feel like dependin’ on me
Sometimes we ain’t meant to be free
If who I am offends you
Don’t feel sorry
Don’t feel, don’t feel sorry
Don’t feel, don’t feel sorry
My loss is worth more than your wins
I’m satisfied if it starts to look in
That is everything, that is everything, that is everything
That is everything
That is everything
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
I, stop
I know what you are
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
I, stop
I am what you not
I try to make it stop
I pray it will stop
Jorja Smith’s ‘The One’ resonates like a soft whisper into the ethos of self-discovery, resonating with the internal battles of a generation caught between ideals and reality. The British songstress has woven a multi-layered narrative of love, self-worth, and emancipation within her pensive lyrics, which continue to unfurl with each listening.
Smith’s ability to mirror the complexities of human emotions against a backdrop of soulful melodicism positions ‘The One’ as an anthem for those wrestling with the decision to stand firmly in their truth. The intricate give-and-take of personal sacrifice and freedom through her words reflects a universal theme that hits home with poignant clarity.
The Struggle for Authenticity in a Judgmental World
Smith’s confession, ‘I been out here tryin’ to see my homecomin’,’ speaks volumes of her journey toward self-acceptance amidst scrutiny. The external voices (‘somebody’s always gonna say somethin”) represent societal expectations that often silence individuality.
Her assertiveness in ‘Triggerin’ a part of me that’s always been indifferent’ underscores a turning point—a moment where Smith chooses her own voice over the cacophony of public opinion. Her defiance is subtle yet powerful, raising the banner for listeners to face their critics head-on.
Sacrifice vs. Dependence: The Balancing Act
The recurring lines ‘Sacrifice ain’t that hard / Feel like dependin’ on me’ capture the essence of Smith’s internal monologue. There’s a duality here, suggesting that knowing one’s worth can both liberate and bind us in ways we may not anticipate.
This acknowledgment sheds light on the delicate equilibrium between giving up parts of oneself for others and the fear of alienating oneself from comfort and expectation. It’s a thesis statement on the nature of freedom itself, which Smith hauntingly alludes may be an illusion for some (‘Sometimes we ain’t meant to be free’).
Uncovering The Song’s Hidden Meaning: Freedom Beyond Sight
‘You been blind to the subject but not blind to me,’ Smith declares, challenging the listener to read between the lines. It is here that she posits the irony of being understood yet not acknowledged for the weight of her struggles.
These words cut deeper into the ongoing conversation of being seen versus being valued—a dialogue that many can relate to in an era defined by visibility and misconstrued perceptions of worth.
A Chorus of Empowerment: Jorja Smith’s Stand Against Disparity
A combination of self-awareness and resilience rings through the anthem-like ‘My loss is worth more than your wins.’ Here, there is a bold reclamation of self despite being at a perceived disadvantage in the eyes of others.
These memorable lines dismantle the conventional scorecard of success and failure, suggesting that finding purpose in the fall may be more fulfilling than any superficial achievements.
Reflections of Resolve: The Quiet Echoes Between the Lines
As the song reaches its crescendo with Smith’s repetitive plea (‘I try to make it stop / I pray it will stop’), one can sense the emotional labor in her attempt to find peace with oneself amidst ongoing external pressures.
The juxtaposition of ‘trying’ and ‘praying’ reveals a raw vulnerability, showing an internal battle between asserting control and surrendering to a greater power. Smith encapsulates the struggle of wanting to end the inner turmoil while accepting that it may be an inherent part of her existence, a poignant message that deeply resonates with many.
