Fiona Apple

"Fast as You Can" is a song that explores themes of personal struggle, the complexities of relationships, and the constant battle between control and vulnerability. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and a desire to break free, both from the constraints of the speaker's own inner struggles and from the toxic dynamics of a relationship. In the first verse, the speaker reveals a destructive side of themselves ("the beast") that they have allowed into their life. They are aware of the chaos it brings and the difficulties it presents in their relationships, but at the same time, they are drawn to it. The chorus, with its repeated plea to run away from them as fast as possible, suggests a realization that the speaker's inner turmoil may be too much for their partner to handle. The second verse implies that the speaker may initially seem vulnerable and submissive, but they anticipate their own hunger for conflict and the need to challenge their partner's faith in humanity. This highlights a pattern of self-sabotage and a fear of intimacy. The speaker wants to protect their partner from the storm that lies within them. The bridge delves into the speaker's mental struggles, describing the unpredictable nature of their mind. They express the desire to escape their chaotic thoughts and seek solace in substances or distractions. The repeated phrase "I'm tired of whys" suggests a longing for simplicity and acceptance without overanalyzing every aspect of the relationship. In the third verse, the speaker acknowledges their inclination to forgive and then continue fighting against their own destructive tendencies. They also express a desire to grow and flourish despite the challenges they face. The final chorus and outro emphasize the urgency for their partner to leave before they further damage the relationship and to allow the speaker to find their own path and self-growth. Overall, "Fast as You Can" delves into the internal struggles and complexities of the speaker's mind, their attempts to protect their partner from their own demons, and their plea for liberation and self-discovery. It's a raw and introspective exploration of the push and pull between vulnerability and destructive tendencies within relationships.