Meaning of Carry On by Lil Nas X

In Lil Nas X's hauntingly beautiful song, 'Carry On', the artist explores themes of resilience, personal growth, and the complexities of familial relationships. Through a combination of introspective lyrics and expressive melodies, Lil Nas X takes us on a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing.One of the standout lyrics in the song is in the chorus when Bobby Caldwell sings, "Carry on, though it may be hard to understand it, you've got to carry on." This line serves as a powerful reminder to never give up, even in the face of adversity. It speaks to the idea that life can be challenging and overwhelming, and sometimes it's difficult to comprehend why things happen the way they do. Yet, through it all, it is crucial to keep moving forward, to carry on. This theme of resilience is reflected throughout the entire song, serving as a driving force behind its emotional impact.Moving on to the first verse, Lil Nas X shares a deeply personal experience of abandonment and disappointment in his familial relationships. He expresses his feelings of being left alone by his father when he sings, "How you leave your son all alone? See you every other month, can you hit a nigga phone?" This lyric explores the pain caused by the absence of a father figure and the longing for a meaningful connection. The theme of family dynamics comes to the forefront, highlighting the struggles many face when trying to navigate complex relationships.In the second verse, Lil Nas X delves into the uncertainty of life and the quest for meaning. He reflects on existential thoughts and the need for distractions from the fear of mortality. In the lyrics, "Worry 'bout my health, bad thoughts, when I'm gonna die? I like to get high 'cause it distracts me when I wonder why," we can feel the weight of his anxieties and the desire to escape from them. This brings forth the theme of grappling with personal fears and the ways we cope with them.Furthermore, Lil Nas X's mention of his grandmother's death in the third verse brings another layer of emotions to the song. His vulnerability shines through as he admits to not being there for her, expressing regret and guilt. This lyric highlights the complex nature of grief and the complexities of familial ties. It explores the notion of loss and the burden of unresolved emotions, fostering another theme of introspection and personal growth.Throughout 'Carry On', Lil Nas X weaves a tapestry of emotions, grappling with past traumas, and ultimately finding solace in resilience and personal evolution. The song explores the themes of family relationships, resilience in the face of adversity, self-reflection, and the pursuit of emotional healing. It serves as a testament to the universal human experience, reminding us all that despite life's challenges, we must keep moving forward, carrying on.