Brilliant Disguise: An Ode to Self Doubt
Bruce Springsteen’s timeless classic Brilliant Disguise is one of my favourite songs. It is also a song which speaks volumes in terms of many people today who don’t believe in themselves or trust themselves. And this makes them doubt others too.
If you listen closely to the lyrics – he keeps questioning himself as a man, his wife and things that he has which he doubts – including his marriage. For me, it is reminiscent of many people today – especially men – who are caught in a world where they are expected to be so much, but deep down they doubt themselves very much. A lot turn this into the fragile egos you often see on display. And others – like Springsteen’s protagonist – turn it upon themselves where they cannot even understand why someone could love them for who they are.
The following lines show how unsure the protagonist is.
“So when you look at me
You better look hard and look twice
Is that me baby,
Or just a brilliant disguise?”
He even goes on to question the gypsy who predicted their marriage saying “maybe, baby the gypsy lied.”
The haunting melody along with this constant questioning makes this a song that is very relevant to our times. It is a reminder that no matter how much we have, if we don’t believe in ourselves or doubt ourselves, then it is really no point. I also love the fact that Bruce Springsteen sings this as a duet with his wife. It adds much more meaning overall and an element of irony.
In a world where so many factors can affect our sense of self, it is important that we understand the value we each hold and not be in constant self doubt. Sometimes we may need professional help to come to that realisation, and there is no shame in seeking that help.
