That I would be good if I lost my hair and my youth…

The lyrics of Alanis Morsette’s “That I Would Be Good” are a fantastic. They are very Alanis-like in every way. They are raw, and they deal with her insecurities openly–she does not try to obfuscate. She is unafraid of expressing herself and letting everyone know what she is trying to say. They are unafraid.

The song asks, would you still value me if I gain weight, if I act out, if I lose money, if I’m not perfect. Or are these superficial things the things that you value in me? Because I will grow old, lose my hair and youth, and what then? Would you still want me then?

The unplugged version of “That I Would Be Good” shows off the power of her voice and shows off her artistry.  With mostly just a guitar with some slight piano, Alanis enraptures the audience. The flute playing gives the song a unique feel.

This song was never a hit, but it is Alanis at her best, and is a great representation of her work. Very personal, direct, woman-centric, acoustic with great singing and an iconic voice. She is extremely open and raw.  Alanis is a feminist icon and an outstanding singer.

That I Would Be Good Lyrics

That I would be good, even if I did nothing.
That I would be good, even if I got the thumbs down.
That I would be good, if I got and stayed sick.
That I would be good, even if I gained ten pounds.

That I would be fine, even if I went bankrupt.
That I would be good, if I lost my hair and my youth.
That I would be great, if I was no longer queen.
That I would be grand, if I was not all knowing.

That I would be loved, even when I numb myself.
That I would be good, even when I am overwhelmed.
That I would be loved, even when I was fuming.
That I would be good, even if I was clingy.

That I would be good, even if I lost sanity.
That I would be good…
Whether with or without you.

Written by Alanis Morissette