Meaning of To Be Young (Acoustic) by Doja Cat

In Doja Cat's acoustic rendition of "To Be Young," the lyrics capture the essence of youth, with its tumultuous emotions and carefree spirit. The song resonates with listeners as it explores the experiences of being young and the unique challenges it brings. Through poignant and relatable lyrics, Doja Cat and Anne-Marie paint a vivid picture of what it truly feels like to be young.The lyrics immediately set the stage for the song's theme by depicting the speaker's disregard for conventional plans and their focus on living in the present. "They tell me I should make a plan for a life, all I'm thinkin' 'bout is what to do tonight." This lyric captures the essence of youthful spontaneity, prioritizing enjoyment over long-term goals. It highlights the freedom and lack of inhibition that comes with being young.Another standout lyric, "We do what we can to dull the pain, Pinky promise things still stay the same," delves into the theme of escapism and the desire to maintain a sense of familiarity amidst the ever-changing nature of youth. The pursuit of temporary relief from hardships by indulging in various activities is common among the youth. It highlights the sentiment of seeking solace in the present moment while holding on to the comfort of consistency.The pre-chorus explores the dreams and aspirations of youth. "Dye my hair a million colors, dream I'll make a billion dollars." This lyric reflects the desire for self-expression and the belief in limitless possibilities. It represents the audacious dreams and grand ambitions that often accompany youth. This theme encourages the embrace of individuality and encourages young people to pursue their passions fearlessly.The chorus, "Fall in love, broken heart, break the rules, drink too much, we're all a mess, but I guess this is what it feels like to be young," captures the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany young love and the rebellious nature of youth. It explores the idea that making mistakes and experiencing heartbreaks are ingrained parts of the human condition, especially during the formative years of youth. This theme encourages self-discovery and emphasizes that growth comes from the lessons learned in the midst of chaos.In the second verse, Anne-Marie touches on the idea of escapism again, but this time through a more specific lens – seeking fulfillment in small-town life. The lyric, "Small town and we're drinkin' all the liquor, every night, tryna feel something bigger," represents the desire to find excitement and purpose in an otherwise monotonous suburban setting. It speaks volumes about the yearning for adventure and a meaningful connection with the world beyond one's immediate surroundings.The final verse sung by Doja Cat delves into the complex emotions and complexities of youth. The lyric, "This can't be real life, don't even feel high," portrays feelings of disillusionment and questioning the authenticity of experiences. It reflects the confusion and uncertainty that comes with navigating the transition to adulthood, where the line between reality and aspirations becomes blurry.In summary, "To Be Young (Acoustic)" beautifully encapsulates the multifaceted nature of youth. The song explores themes of spontaneity, escapism, dreams, self-discovery, and the inevitable mistakes and heartaches that come with growing up. Each lyric amplifies these themes, providing listeners with a vivid and introspective understanding of what it feels like to be young. Ultimately, the song encourages embracing the fleeting nature of youth and cherishing the transformative journey it entails.