Meaning and Lyrics of What I’ve Done by Linkin Park

The song “What I’ve Done” by Linkin Park delves into themes of redemption, self-reflection, and the desire to move past mistakes. The lyrics convey a sense of acknowledgment and acceptance of one’s actions, as well as a longing to break free from the burdens of the past.

The verse highlights the internal struggle with regret and the consequences of living a life filled with deceit and falsehoods. The absence of blood and alibi suggests a reckoning with the truth and facing the consequences of past actions head-on.

The pre-chorus introduces the idea of seeking forgiveness and cleansing through mercy, indicating a desire for a fresh start and a release from the guilt and shame that weigh heavily on the narrator.

The chorus is a powerful declaration of taking responsibility for one’s actions. The repetition of “What I’ve done, I’ll face myself” underscores the importance of confronting one’s past and owning up to the mistakes made. The lines “Erase myself and let go of what I’ve done” express the yearning for a clean slate and the willingness to move forward by leaving behind the past.

In the second verse, there is a plea to be judged based on who the narrator truly is, not by the perceptions or judgments of others. The act of cleaning the slate with uncertainty acknowledges the difficulty of starting anew and the challenges of letting go of ingrained patterns and behaviors.

The bridge signifies a turning point, a decision to begin anew despite the potential for pain and difficulties ahead. The act of forgiving oneself is portrayed as a crucial step in breaking free from the cycle of regret and self-blame.

The guitar solo adds an emotive layer to the song, enhancing the feelings of introspection and emotional intensity.

The outro, with the haunting repetition of “What I’ve done” and “Forgiving what I’ve done,” reinforces the themes of self-forgiveness and closure. The repetition of these phrases suggests a process of acceptance and letting go, ultimately leading to a sense of peace and resolution.

Overall, “What I’ve Done” is a poignant exploration of personal growth, redemption, and the transformative power of self-forgiveness. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own past actions, take responsibility for their mistakes, and strive for inner peace and reconciliation.