Sometimes You're The Hammer, Sometimes You're The Nail

A Day To Remember's song 'Sometimes You're The Hammer, Sometimes You're The Nail' delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the struggle for self-respect. The lyrics reflect a battle against external pressures and internal fears, emphasizing the importance of standing strong in the face of adversity. The repeated lines 'You wanna take, take, take, take, take it away from me' and 'You can't wait, wait, wait, wait, wait till I'm stumbling' suggest a constant fight against those who seek to undermine or belittle the narrator. This struggle is not just against others but also against the narrator's own vulnerabilities and fears.

The song's chorus highlights a paradoxical comfort found in sadness, as the narrator admits, 'That's why sad songs make me happy, cause I don't have to feel alone.' This line suggests that in moments of despair, there is a sense of solidarity and understanding that can be found in music, making the listener feel less isolated. The lyrics also touch on the idea of self-worth and respect, with lines like 'You don't have to like me, but you're gonna respect me' and 'I that came from nothing, leave hope in my wake.' These statements underscore a journey of self-empowerment and the determination to be acknowledged for one's true self, regardless of others' opinions.

The bridge of the song introduces a more introspective tone, with the narrator expressing a desire for personal growth and understanding: 'I want to be a better person, I wanna know the master plan.' This introspection is coupled with a defiance against judgment from others, as seen in 'Cast your stones, cast your judgement, you don't make me who I am.' The song concludes with a call for empathy and support for those who are struggling, encapsulated in the lines 'God help those with open hands, may they never feel burden again. Yeah I'll stand up for those who can't.' This final message reinforces the themes of resilience and solidarity, urging listeners to support one another in their respective battles.