Meaning of 20 Something by SZA

The song "20 Something" by SZA captures the essence of the tumultuous journey of self-discovery and growth that takes place during our twenties. The overall theme of the song revolves around the challenges and uncertainties that one faces during this pivotal phase of life, as well as the desire for stability and a sense of purpose.One standout lyric in the song that contributes to the development of this theme is, "Honesty hurts when you're getting older." This lyric speaks to the realization that as we navigate through our twenties, we become more aware of the truths and realities of life that might have been masked in our younger years. It hints at the sometimes painful process of shedding our naivety and facing the complex and often harsh realities of adulthood.Another impactful lyric in the song is, "Why you ain't say I was falling short?" This line reflects the insecurities and self-doubt that can plague individuals in their twenties. It captures the fear of not meeting expectations, both our own and those imposed by society. This theme of feeling inadequate or "falling short" ties into the broader theme of the song, as it highlights the pressure to achieve and succeed during this pivotal phase of life.The line, "How you lead me out so far away?" further adds to the exploration of themes in the song. It touches upon the longing for stability and direction that comes with growing up. As we navigate our twenties, we often find ourselves questioning the choices we've made and where they have led us. This lyric exemplifies the desire for guidance and the search for a path that leads us towards a fulfilling future.One of the most powerful themes in the song is encapsulated in the following lyric, "Stuck in them twenty-somethings, stuck in them twenty-somethings, good luck on them twenty-somethings, but God bless these twenty-somethings." This line emphasizes the complex mix of emotions that define this phase of life – the feeling of being trapped, unsure, and at times lost, while also acknowledging the beauty and potential that exists within these years. It speaks to the paradox of wanting to move on from the struggles of youth while still cherishing the unique experiences and opportunities it brings.The chorus also contains the lyrics, "Hopin' my twenty-somethings won't end, hopin' to keep the rest of my friends, prayin' the twenty-somethings don't kill me, don't kill me." These lyrics express the fear of losing the connections and friendships that have been forged during this transformative decade. It embodies the vulnerability and nostalgia that often accompany the transition from youth to adulthood, as well as the desire to preserve the bonds and memories created during this time.Overall, "20 Something" is a song that delves deep into the multifaceted experiences of individuals navigating their twenties. Through its poignant lyrics, the song explores themes of self-doubt, longing for stability, the fear of failure, and the bittersweet sentiment of leaving behind the carefree nature of youth. It is a testament to the introspective journey that takes place during this time, where one seeks to find their place in the world and grapple with the complexities of adulthood. SZA captures the range of emotions and uncertainties that arise during this phase of life, ultimately painting a heartfelt portrait of the human experience.