Meaning of Deal With It by Beastie Boys

The Beastie Boys, an iconic hip-hop trio, have captivated audiences for decades with their unique blend of witty lyrics and infectious beats. One of their lesser-known tracks, "Deal With It," showcases their rebellious spirit and tackles a range of thought-provoking themes. While the song may seem straightforward on the surface, delving deeper into its lyrics reveals a complex and imaginative exploration of life's challenges and how we choose to confront them.At its core, "Deal With It" encourages listeners to embrace a positive mindset rather than succumbing to negativity. The overall theme revolves around taking responsibility for one's own happiness and finding ways to cope with adversity. Through a series of standout lyrics, the track explores alternative perspectives and provides unexpected insights into various aspects of life.In the first verse, the Beastie Boys ponder the idea of rebellion and disruptive behavior. "Rob and steal from the health food store, The ideas you shout that are so hardcore," they rap. Here, the lyrics suggest that sometimes the most radical ideas come from unorthodox places. The theme that emerges is that questioning societal norms and pushing boundaries can lead to innovative and groundbreaking solutions.Moving into the chorus, the Beastie Boys assert their refusal to adopt a pessimistic outlook on life. "I won't say that life's a bitch and then you die because I do my best to enjoy mine, You can't bring me down to a world of self-pity, Lots of ways to deal with it, Deal with it." Amidst a seemingly cynical world, the lyrics encourage looking beyond the negative and finding joy in the present moment. This theme emphasizes the power of resilience and the importance of not allowing external circumstances to dictate one's emotional state.The second verse introduces the notion of empathy and the importance of treating others with respect. "You do unto others like they're pieces of shit, A righteous man who's flipping the script, There's plenty of room for everyone at the table, Check yourself before you check the label." These lyrics highlight the significance of challenging assumptions and treating everyone with fairness and kindness. The theme that emerges from this verse seeks to promote unity and understanding in a society that often thrives on division.Returning to the chorus, the Beastie Boys reject the idea of harboring grudges and choosing anger as a default response. "I won't live life being mad holding a grudge, It's not my place - sitting back, playing judge, Not enough time to always stay mad, May as well be glad to Deal With It, Deal With It." This powerful message encourages forgiveness and the ability to let go of negativity. It champions the idea that there is limited time in life, and it's better spent finding peace and moving forward rather than dwelling on grievances."Deal With It" ultimately weaves together various imaginative themes, all centered around the overarching theme of embracing personal agency in the face of life's challenges. The song encourages listeners to explore uncharted territories, maintain a positive outlook, practice empathy, and choose joy over anger. By highlighting these unexpected themes, the Beastie Boys compel their audience to reflect on their own attitudes and adopt a more resilient and open-minded approach to navigating life's ups and downs.The beauty of "Deal With It" lies in its ability to provoke thought and inspire listeners to reassess their own perspectives. The Beastie Boys, with their unmatched creativity and lyrical prowess, continue to leave an indelible mark on the music industry. Through this lesser-known gem, they invite us to ponder the power of our choices and challenge ourselves to deal with life's obstacles in unique and unexpected ways. So, next time you find yourself faced with adversity, remember the words of the Beastie Boys and embrace their advice: Deal With It.