To me this song is a simultaneous condemnation of conformity for its negative effects on society and a celebration of individuality. Resorting to impulse reflects the sudden desire to escape those around you for the mistreatment of uncommon traits which do not fit within the social constructs of today's culture. He is pointing out the overwhelming negativity towards those who operate outside of what is accepted. This behavior forces those who are outcasted to self-critique when the true fallacy is not accepting people for who they are. Thus "count the imperfections in the lines on my face, when your regrets and failures are so obvious". It is easy to criticize what you don't understand, but we must not answer in kind, even when reciprocating judgement would be easy. The last portion of the song is a message to those who relate to this over-arching message: I know who I am, and I will be true to myself, and I will not allow the opinions of others define my character.
To me this song is a simultaneous condemnation of conformity for its negative effects on society and a celebration of individuality. Resorting to impulse reflects the sudden desire to escape those around you for the mistreatment of uncommon traits which do not fit within the social constructs of today's culture. He is pointing out the overwhelming negativity towards those who operate outside of what is accepted. This behavior forces those who are outcasted to self-critique when the true fallacy is not accepting people for who they are. Thus "count the imperfections in the lines on my face, when your regrets and failures are so obvious". It is easy to criticize what you don't understand, but we must not answer in kind, even when reciprocating judgement would be easy. The last portion of the song is a message to those who relate to this over-arching message: I know who I am, and I will be true to myself, and I will not allow the opinions of others define my character.