Throughout the song, the lyrics convey the frustration of feeling trapped or held back by circumstances, societal norms, or personal struggles. The chorus emphasizes the desire for change and the determination to break free from these limitations:
(Chorus)
"Born like this, but I won't live like that
Fight back, I won't give in to all their facts
I fought hard, fought every step that way
I'm not your ordinary machine"
The song suggests that the protagonist has been fighting against these circumstances for a long time, refusing to conform or be defined by external forces. The lyrics also imply that they have faced criticism or judgment from others, further fueling their determination to break free.
The bridge reinforces this message of resilience and the refusal to be held back by the expectations of others:
(Bridge)
"I'll take that doubt, wear it like a crown
And with every word I'll tear a building down
I won't let them win, I won't let them say
I won't let them take this all away"
Here, the protagonist chooses to embrace the doubts and criticisms as a source of strength and motivation. They refuse to let others dictate their path and are determined to overcome the obstacles in their way.
Ultimately, "Born Like This" serves as a powerful anthem of self-acceptance and the unwavering determination to break free from restrictive societal norms and expectations.