Mitski’s lyricism exposes trauma of gender, race based double consciousness
Mitski, having mastered the art of melancholic melodies through her gut-wrenching vocals and lyricism, has returned with 11 new songs in her album Nothing’s About to Happen to Me. Staying true to her style with seemingly few experimentations shouldn’t be looked down upon but rather celebrated with relief. Nothing creates a powerful metaphor for misogyny through its depiction of how traditional relationships are designed to leave women helpless, with no sense of self-identity during or after.
Through her previous works over the past nearly 15 years, Mitski has always circled back to themes regarding the denial of identity, something that tortures her relentlessly. Most notably, in her song “Your Best American Girl" from album Puberty 2 Mitski (2016), she draws attention to her sense of obligation to change and fit her partner’s ideals. She not only critiques the patriarchy’s desire for a woman’s perfection, but also the racial double standard. Although the title itself is self-explanatory, as she wants to be seen as a perfect “American Girl,” it has further significance. In the album cover, she appears to have her face painted white in hopes of fitting in. The idea of the “American Girl” clearly isn’t just about nationality, but more of an unattainable “perfection” for marginalized groups in general. Mitski conveys that current societal standards expect uniformity, whether it be on the basis of race or gender.
Grasping onto a dying relationship with a shifting identity is not found only on Puberty 2 Mitski, though; Nothing’s About to Happen to Me reflects the same theme, more specifically in the song “I’ll Change for You.” Again, the title gives away much of the main idea—giving up her current personality because her partner is one of her “most precious memories.” However, the song begins in more of a question format when she asks, “Do I let our love die?” The hesitation symbolizes a turn in Mitski’s end goal, because she’s realizing that she may need to give up her “love” so that she can have personal growth. The tempo and beat is faster and more cheerful in contrast with the lyrics, meaning that she’s nearly found her own way, but she’s being held back by something, either herself or society.
“Dead Women” poses an even grimmer question in the opening line: “Would you have liked me better if I’d died, so you could tell my story the way it ought to be?” Her focus shifts from the death of a relationship to the death of a living person and how it could benefit her partner. She begins to see that they are only taking away her identity or “story,” twisting it into something controllable. Asking this directly shows that she’s reclaiming her own power and confidence through challenging the partner, which is really a metaphor for societal oppression of women around the world. Her vocals and the instrumentals are much calmer within the piece, despite the seriousness of it. However, the G minor key gives it an overall eerie tone, and listeners may be able to tell something is off.
It’s true that Mitski’s newest edition isn’t vastly different from her past work, but that doesn’t invalidate it. Oftentimes, artists try to make a comeback with an almost completely different style of music. For example, The Neighbourhood, believed that fans would stay interested if they switched things up. However, this isn’t always the case. Most people have a set expectation for artists they enjoy and they recognize them for their distinct music. This is what captivated their interest in the artist initially. There are certainly other artists with music as pensive and sorrowful as Mitski, but her vocals are uniquely raw and usually more emphasized than instrumentals. She conveys her deeper message into her songs beautifully.
Overall, Mitski’s Nothing’s About to Happen to Me is just what fans were looking for, without unnecessary new surprises. She knew exactly what needed to be done with themes of self-identity and misogyny, impeccably crafting them into another impactful album.
Grade: A-
Mitski continues to give fans gut-wrenching songs to cry to in her newest album.
by Samreen Chahal
Published March 20, 2026
Oshkosh West Index Volume 122 Issue VI