Meaning and Lyrics of Thrown Around by James Blake

“Thrown Around” by James Blake explores the complexities of the artist’s relationship with wealth, fame, and identity.

In the first verse, the speaker reflects on the impact of wealth on their health and the struggle to maintain authenticity in the face of societal pressures. There is a sense of disconnection and inner conflict, portrayed poignantly in the line “Everything that’s right is wrong.” The reference to feeling like an animal, whether programmed or not, suggests a primal urge or instinct that drives them, symbolized by the metaphor of a gun in the small of their back. The imagery of an ‘itch you can’t scratch’ may represent unfulfilled desires or a yearning for something more profound, leading them on a journey that takes them all over the world.

The chorus, with its repetition of “Gets me thrown around,” conveys a sense of being tossed about or overwhelmed by external forces or circumstances. This feeling of being at the mercy of a chaotic world is further emphasized in the post-chorus, with the repeated refrain echoing a sense of disorientation and uncertainty.

In the second verse, the speaker hints at seeking solace in the past, possibly through nostalgia or a longing for stability in a rapidly changing world. The reference to history loving to rhyme suggests a cyclical nature of events, where patterns repeat themselves, hinting at a sense of inevitability or fate.

The third verse delves into the existential struggle of finding meaning and authenticity in a superficial world. The inability of Nietzsche, the vicar, or the guru to reach or teach them points to a personal journey of self-discovery and the limitations of external guidance. The contrast between the need to be seen and the consequences of constant visibility reflects the theme of identity and visibility in an age of social media and instant gratification. The speaker’s reference to living on their screen and others skimming their “cream” highlights the complexities of fame and the loss of privacy in the digital age.

The bridge and final chorus reinforce the idea of being “thrown around,” suggesting a sense of disorientation, chaos, and instability in the face of external pressures and internal conflicts. The repeated imagery of things being familiar yet unsettling underscores the cyclical nature of their experiences and emotions.

Overall, “Thrown Around” by James Blake is a reflective and introspective exploration of the artist’s struggle with the trappings of success, the search for authentic self-expression, and the challenges of navigating a world that often feels overwhelming and disorienting.