Excuses
Alanis Morissette · Original Album Series [2012]
I am too dumb
I'm too smart
They'll not understand me
I'm lonely
They'll hate me
There is not enough time
It's too hard to help me
God wants me to work
No resting, no lazy
These excuses, how they've served me so well
They've kept me safe; they've kept me stuck
They've kept me locked in my own cell
I'm too far from home
It takes far too much energy
And I cannot afford to
No one will ever see me
These excuses, how they've served me so well
They've kept me safe; they've kept me stuck
They've kept me locked in my own cell
These excuses, how they're so familiar
They've kept me blocked; they've kept me small
They've kept me safe inside my shell
Bringing these into the light
Shakes their foundation and clears my sight
Now my imagination is the only thing that limits
The bar and its rise to the heights
No one can have it all
See, I have to
They want me to
And I can't let them down
I will never be happy
These excuses, how they've served me so well
They've kept me safe; they've kept me stuck
They've kept me locked in my own cell
These excuses, how they're so familiar
They've kept me blocked; they've kept me small
They've kept me safe inside my shell
Excuses
Excuses stands as a defining track within Alanis Morissette's expansive discography, showcasing the raw emotional intensity that characterized her breakthrough era. Released during a period where her distinctive blend of alternative rock and confessional songwriting dominated the airwaves, the recording highlights her ability to articulate complex personal feelings with directness and power. The song fits seamlessly into her broader body of work, which often explores themes of relationships, self-reflection, and resilience. Morissette's vocal delivery on this track reinforces her reputation as a formidable force in modern rock, delivering a performance that resonates with listeners seeking authenticity. As part of her celebrated catalogue, Excuses remains a testament to her enduring influence on the genre and her skill in crafting memorable, emotionally charged music.