Meaning of Give Yourself A Try by The 1975

The 1975's song "Give Yourself A Try" delves into the complexities of growing older, self-discovery, societal pressures, and the pursuit of happiness. The track's overall theme centers around embracing one's own identity, learning from experiences, and navigating the challenges that come with adulthood.One notable lyric in the song is, "Like friends don't lie and it all tastes the same in the dark." While seemingly casual, this lyric touches on the sometimes false perception of friendship and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It suggests that when faced with darkness or uncertainty, we may discover that things aren't always as they seem. This lyric reflects the theme of disillusionment and the process of learning to trust oneself.Another standout lyric is, "The only apparatus required for happiness is your pain and f_cking going outside." This lyric plays with the idea that pain and struggle are essential elements for personal growth and fulfillment. It highlights the importance of embracing difficult experiences and finding solace in the simple act of connecting with the world outside of oneself. This theme emphasizes the resilience and transformative power of confronting challenges head-on.The line, "Jane took her own life at 16, she was a kid who had the box tattooed on her arm," introduces a somber and thought-provoking theme within the song. It addresses the weight of mental health issues and the tragic consequences they can lead to. Though dark, it also serves as a reminder of the impact our actions and words can have on others. This lyric explores vulnerability, empathy, and the responsibility we have to support one another, especially during difficult times.In the bridge, the lyric, "'And what would you say to your younger self?' Growing a beard's quite hard," injects a touch of humor into the song, while still offering a deeper reflection on the passage of time. It highlights the peculiar nature of the aging process, where seemingly simple things like growing a beard can become unexpectedly challenging. This lyric taps into the theme of nostalgia, prompting the listener to reflect on their own journey and the changes they have experienced.One final notable lyric is, "And you'll make a lot of money, and it's funny 'Cause you'll move somewhere sunny and get addicted to drugs." This lyric takes a surprising twist, blending themes of success, temptation, and self-destructive behaviors. It suggests that despite achieving financial success and enjoying a seemingly idyllic lifestyle, one can still fall into patterns of addiction and self-destructive behaviors. This lyric serves as a cautionary tale about the emptiness that materialism and external validation can bring.In conclusion, "Give Yourself A Try" explores the multifaceted journey of self-discovery, highlighting themes of disillusionment, resilience, mental health, nostalgia, and the pursuit of happiness. Each lyric presents unexpected and imaginative themes, providing a thought-provoking narrative that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the challenges they face in life. It's a reminder to embrace our individuality, confront our pain, and find solace in the pursuit of genuine happiness.