Meaning of Try Hard by 5 Seconds of Summer

The 5 Seconds of Summer song titled "Try Hard" explores the theme of unrequited love and the struggle to be someone you're not in order to impress someone you admire. The song follows the story of a young man who is infatuated with a girl who is seemingly out of his league, leading him to change himself to try and win her over. Throughout the song, several standout lyrics offer deeper insights into the themes of self-doubt, societal pressure, and the longing for acceptance.In the opening lines, the lyrics "I'm trying too hard again" immediately set the tone for the song. It highlights the narrator's desperation to be noticed and accepted by the girl he desires. This notion of trying too hard is a relatable experience for many individuals who have found themselves altering their behavior or appearance to fit societal norms or gain someone's attention.The lyrics "The colors in her hair don't seem to fade" imply that the girl represents a sense of individuality and rebellion. This theme of non-conformity is juxtaposed with the narrator's struggle to fit in and be perceived as someone he's not. It suggests that the girl's unique qualities attract him, but he feels inadequate in comparison.The line "She makes me feel like I try, like I try, like I'm trying too hard" touches upon the internal conflict the narrator faces. He is torn between wanting to be himself and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The theme of authenticity and the fear of not being accepted for who you truly are emerges here. It delves into the universal struggle of trying to be someone else, ultimately resulting in feelings of self-doubt and insecurity.Another notable lyric is "I pierced my lip so she thinks I'm cool." This showcases the narrator's attempt to change his appearance in order to seem more appealing to the girl. This theme explores the pressures young people often face to conform to societal beauty standards or trends. It sheds light on the desire for external validation and acceptance at the expense of individuality.The line "But now, who knew that she's in the crowd of my show?" introduces a surprising twist in the narrative. It reveals that the girl the narrator admires is actually present at his show, turning the power dynamic between them on its head. This lyric plays with the notion of hidden connections and the possibility of love being reciprocated unexpectedly. It suggests that the narrator may have been too consumed by his own insecurities to notice that he was already being noticed and appreciated.Overall, "Try Hard" explores the idea of unrequited love and the lengths one is willing to go to win someone's affection. The underlying themes of self-doubt, societal pressure, and the desire for authenticity resonate with listeners. The lyrics offer a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of young love, showcasing the internal struggles faced by individuals who feel they must change themselves to be seen or accepted. Ultimately, the song reminds us of the importance of staying true to ourselves and embracing our uniqueness, instead of trying to conform to societal expectations.