The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Villain I'm Not" by the artist "Three Days Grace"

In Villain I'm Not, Three Days Grace portrays a toxic relationship where the lyrical protagonist is constantly scapegoated.

The first verse depicts a scene of unfair accusations and demands to unleash negativity ("Let it out, let it out, take your anger out on me"). The protagonist realizes that their partner is looking for someone to blame and it's easier for them to place the blame on the protagonist than to deal with their own issues ("You want me to be the villain... So easy to point the finger at me").

The chorus reinforces this idea: the protagonist is ready to take on the role of the villain, endure pain and injustice ("make me the one you wanna hate… make me the villain I'm not"), just to save the relationship.

The second verse delves into the partner's past, hinting at their past traumas ("I know that no one's ever been there for you"). The lyrical hero seems to understand that the partner's pain is being projected onto them, but still agrees to be the target for venting grievances ("And I know what you're thinking, that I'm gonna hurt you too").

The bridge and the outro show that the protagonist begins to doubt the equality of the relationship. They are ready to sacrifice themselves ("I'll take the blame… Tell me, would you do the same for me?"), but the rhetorical questions ("I don't think so") indicate a growing understanding of the imbalance in their feelings.

In conclusion, Villain I'm Not is a song about self-sacrifice in a toxic relationship where one is willing to be the "villain" to make the other feel better.