What's Wrong With Me? — Bebe Wood Lyrics

"What's Wrong With Me?" by Bebe Wood, sung by Gretchen, explores the depths of self-doubt and the craving for approval. The song opens with Gretchen asking for criticism about her appearance and behavior, refecting a deep need for validation, even if it comes in the form of negative feedback. This paradoxical desire for criticism, despite recognizing the other person's cruelty, highlights a complex emotional state where the need for acknowledgment outweighs the desire for genuine kindness.

The chorus, "What's wrong with me? How I speak? How I dress? What's wrong with me? You keep me guessing," underscores Gretchen's constant self-scrutiny and uncertainty, driven by her pursuit of approval from a critical sorce. This ongoing self-questioning contrasts sharply with her mother's affirmations of beauty, indicating a shift in Gretchen's perception of herself from positive to negative, influenced by external opinions.

Gretchen's internal conflict reaches a point where she begins to wonder whether the problem lies with her or with the person she seeks validation from, "What's wrong with me? Could it be you? It's probably me." This moment of introspection signals a growing realization about the potentially toxic nature of her dependency on external validation.

In summary, "What's Wrong With Me?" is a poignant portrayal of the struggle with self-acceptance and the impact of external validation on one's self-esteem. The song captures the emotional turmoil of depending on the approval of others, especially those who may not be supportive or kind, and the complex journey towards self-awareness and self-acceptance.