Billie Eilish’s fourth single since the release of her Grammy-winning debut album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? presents a play on the famous philosophical quote, “I think, therefore I am. – Therefore I Am”
Both the title and corresponding lyric are a reference to “Cogito, ergo sum”, a philosophical statement coined by René Descartes. A self-directed music video shot on an iPhone was released alongside the song, in which Eilish is shown wandering through an empty mall, playfully grabbing snacks and drinks as she dances past the stores. She’s ultimately told off by mall security and runs out.
Lyrically, Eilish sings about disregarding people’s opinions towards her. She explains that she is an individual with a mind of her own and does not require anybody making decisions on her behalf. In the chorus, Eilish makes fun of an unknown person, telling them that they believe they are “the man,” while beginning to wonder the reality of existence. As the song continues, Eilish does not feel the person is what they believe themselves to be. In the first verse, Eilish expresses disdain towards the constant media coverage about her and demands the charlatans to stop speaking Eilish’s name as if they know her personally. [Wikipedia]
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
Stop, what the hell are you talking about? Ha
Get my pretty name outta your mouth
We are not the same with or without
Don’t talk ’bout me like how you might know how I feel
Top of the world, but your world isn’t real
Your world’s an ideal
So go have fun
I really couldn’t care less
And you can give ’em my best, but just know…
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
I don’t want press to put your name next to mine
We’re on different lines, so I
Wanna be nice enough
They don’t call my bluff ’cause I hate to find
Articles, articles, articles
I’d rather you remain unremarkable
(Got a lotta) Interviews, interviews, interviews
When they say your name, I just act confused
Did you have fun?
I really couldn’t care less
And you can give ’em my best, but just know…
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
I’m sorry
I don’t think I caught your name
I’m sorry
I don’t think I caught your name
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am
I’m not your friend or anything
Damn, you think that you’re the man
I think, therefore, I am