This Is Me: Greatest Showman Song Lyrics & Meaning
Let's dive into the heartfelt anthem from The Greatest Showman, "This Is Me." This song is more than just catchy; it's a powerful declaration of self-acceptance and embracing your true identity, flaws and all. The Greatest Showman, for those who don't know, is a cinematic spectacle loosely based on the life of P.T. Barnum, the famous showman and entertainer. The musical film is filled with show-stopping numbers, but "This Is Me" truly stands out due to its raw emotion and universal message. The song, performed by Keala Settle as Lettie Lutz, the bearded lady, quickly became an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. The track encapsulates the film's broader themes of acceptance, belonging, and the beauty of individuality. The song appears during a pivotal moment in the film when the "freaks," tired of being hidden away and treated as spectacles, decide to embrace who they are and step into the spotlight. This act of defiance and self-love is incredibly moving and makes "This Is Me" such a resonant and popular song. The lyrics themselves are a journey from insecurity and vulnerability to confidence and self-assurance. It speaks to the struggle of hiding one's true self to fit in and the ultimate liberation that comes from accepting and celebrating your unique qualities. The song is a reminder that it's okay to be different; in fact, it's what makes you special. The impact of "This Is Me" extends far beyond the film. It has become an anthem for various communities and individuals who have felt marginalized or excluded. The song's message of self-acceptance and empowerment resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. It's a reminder that you are worthy of love and belonging, just as you are. It has been used in schools, support groups, and even political rallies to inspire and uplift people. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal need for acceptance and the power of music to connect and heal. So, whether you're a fan of The Greatest Showman or simply someone looking for a boost of self-love, "This Is Me" is a song that will resonate with you. It's a reminder to embrace your true self, flaws and all, and to never be afraid to shine your light.
The Story Behind "This Is Me"
The Greatest Showman features a fantastic soundtrack, but "This Is Me" is undoubtedly one of the most impactful songs. The journey of creating this anthem is almost as inspiring as the song itself. The song was written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the Oscar-winning duo behind the La La Land soundtrack. They were tasked with creating a song that would capture the feeling of empowerment and self-acceptance that the characters in the film were experiencing. Pasek and Paul drew inspiration from the stories of the performers in the film, many of whom had experienced discrimination and prejudice in their own lives. They wanted to create a song that would give these characters a voice and allow them to express their true selves. The writing process was intense, with the songwriters spending hours talking to the actors and learning about their experiences. They wanted to ensure that the song felt authentic and genuine. One of the key decisions they made was to have Keala Settle, who played the bearded lady Lettie Lutz, sing the song. Settle brought a raw emotion and vulnerability to the performance that perfectly captured the song's message. Her powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery helped to make "This Is Me" the anthem that it is today. The song's production was also crucial to its success. The producers wanted to create a sound that was both uplifting and powerful. They used a combination of orchestral instruments and electronic elements to create a sound that was both epic and intimate. The result is a song that is both emotionally resonant and musically captivating. The song's message of self-acceptance and empowerment resonated with audiences around the world. It became an anthem for people who have ever felt like outsiders or who have struggled to accept themselves. The song's success is a testament to the power of music to connect people and inspire change.
"This Is Me" Lyrics Breakdown
To truly appreciate the depth of "This Is Me," let's break down the lyrics and explore their meaning line by line. Understanding the nuances of each verse and chorus reveals the song's powerful message of self-acceptance and empowerment.
Verse 1:
I'm not a stranger to the dark Hide away, they say 'Cause we don't want your broken parts I've learned to be ashamed of all my scars Run away, they say No one will love you as you are
This first verse sets the stage by immediately introducing the feelings of isolation and shame that the characters, and many people in real life, experience. The lyrics, "I'm not a stranger to the dark," suggest a familiarity with hardship and feeling different. The lines, "Hide away, they say, 'Cause we don't want your broken parts," highlight the rejection and prejudice faced by those who don't fit societal norms. The verse concludes with the internalization of these negative messages, as the singer expresses having "learned to be ashamed of all my scars." This sets up the emotional journey that the song will take.
Pre-Chorus:
But I won't let them break me down to dust I know that there's a place for us For we are glorious
This pre-chorus marks a turning point in the song. Despite the pain and rejection, the singer refuses to be defeated. The line, "But I won't let them break me down to dust," signifies a newfound resilience and determination. The lyrics, "I know that there's a place for us, for we are glorious," introduce the idea of finding belonging and celebrating individuality. This section builds anticipation for the powerful chorus that follows.
Chorus:
This is me Look out 'cause here I come And I'm marching on to the beat I drum I'm not scared to be seen I make no apologies, this is me
This is the heart of the song and its most empowering message. The chorus is a bold declaration of self-acceptance and defiance. The lyrics, "This is me, look out 'cause here I come," announce the singer's arrival and refusal to hide any longer. The lines, "And I'm marching on to the beat I drum, I'm not scared to be seen," symbolize taking control of one's own destiny and embracing visibility. The chorus concludes with the powerful statement, "I make no apologies, this is me," solidifying the theme of unapologetic self-acceptance.
Verse 2:
Another round of bullets hits my skin Well, fire away 'cause today, I won't let the shame sink in We are bursting through the barricades and reaching for the sun (We are warriors) Yeah, that's what we've become
This verse acknowledges the continued challenges and negativity that the characters face. The lyrics, "Another round of bullets hits my skin," represent the ongoing criticism and prejudice. However, the singer's resolve has strengthened, as they declare, "Well, fire away 'cause today, I won't let the shame sink in." The lines, "We are bursting through the barricades and reaching for the sun, we are warriors," symbolize overcoming obstacles and striving for a brighter future. This verse reinforces the themes of resilience and empowerment.
Bridge:
And I know that I deserve your love 'Cause there's nothing I'm not worthy of
This short but powerful bridge serves as a reminder of self-worth and deservingness. The lyrics, "And I know that I deserve your love, 'Cause there's nothing I'm not worthy of," emphasize the importance of self-love and acceptance. This section reinforces the idea that everyone is worthy of love and belonging, regardless of their differences.
Chorus:
This is me Look out 'cause here I come And I'm marching on to the beat I drum I'm not scared to be seen I make no apologies, this is me
Outro:
This is me
The repetition of the chorus and the simple declaration, "This is me," in the outro reinforces the song's central message of self-acceptance and empowerment. The song concludes with a powerful statement of identity and a refusal to be anything other than one's true self.
Why "This Is Me" Resonates
"This Is Me" from The Greatest Showman isn't just a catchy tune; it's a powerful anthem that resonates deeply with so many people because it taps into universal human experiences. We all, at some point, feel like we don't quite fit in, like we have to hide parts of ourselves to be accepted. This song confronts those feelings head-on and offers a message of hope and self-acceptance.
One of the key reasons the song resonates is its honesty. The lyrics don't shy away from the pain of feeling like an outsider. They acknowledge the sting of rejection and the struggle to overcome feelings of shame. This vulnerability makes the song relatable and allows listeners to connect with the emotions being expressed. The message of self-acceptance is also incredibly powerful. In a world that often pressures us to conform, "This Is Me" encourages us to embrace our unique qualities and celebrate our individuality. It reminds us that our differences are what make us special and that we shouldn't be ashamed of who we are. The song's message of empowerment is particularly appealing. It inspires listeners to take control of their own lives and to stand up for themselves. It encourages them to be visible, to be heard, and to make no apologies for being who they are. The emotional delivery of the song is another factor that contributes to its resonance. Keala Settle's powerful vocals and heartfelt performance bring the lyrics to life and amplify their emotional impact. Her passion and authenticity make the song even more moving and inspiring. The song's universal message also transcends cultural boundaries. It resonates with people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. It speaks to the shared human experience of wanting to be accepted and loved for who we are. It's a song that can be sung by anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or who has struggled to accept themselves.
The Enduring Legacy of "This Is Me"
The legacy of "This Is Me" extends far beyond the box office success of The Greatest Showman. It has become a cultural phenomenon, an anthem for self-acceptance and empowerment that continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. The song's impact can be seen in its widespread use in schools, support groups, and even political rallies. It has been used to promote inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and empower marginalized communities. The song's message of self-acceptance has also resonated with individuals who have struggled with mental health issues, body image concerns, and other personal challenges. It has provided them with a sense of hope and encouragement, reminding them that they are not alone and that they are worthy of love and acceptance. The song's success has also helped to raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the entertainment industry. It has shown that audiences are hungry for stories that celebrate individuality and promote self-acceptance. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to connect people and inspire change. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength in our shared humanity and celebrate the beauty of our differences. "This Is Me" is more than just a song; it is a movement, a call to action, and a reminder that we all have the power to create a more inclusive and accepting world. So next time you hear "This Is Me," remember the message it carries: embrace your true self, celebrate your individuality, and never be afraid to shine your light.