It Is What It Is
Abe Parker
Embracing Inevitability in Abe Parker's 'It Is What It Is'
Abe Parker's song 'It Is What It Is' delves into the themes of resignation and acceptance in the face of life's unchangeable circumstances. The lyrics convey a sense of talking to oneself or to an unresponsive entity, as suggested by the line 'Talking to the wall 'cause, at least, I hear an echo.' This indicates a feeling of isolation and the search for some form of acknowledgment or response, even if it's just an echo of one's own voice.
The recurring phrase 'It is what it is' serves as a mantra of acceptance, acknowledging that there are things beyond one's control that cannot be changed. The mention of 'lay[ing] with someone else's sins' suggests bearing the weight of others' actions, perhaps feeling the consequences of things that were not directly the individual's fault. The imagery of pounding on heaven's gates with no reply further emphasizes the feeling of seeking answers or relief but finding none.
The song also touches on the internal struggle and the feeling of being trapped in one's own existence, as seen in the lines 'Oh, when I go numb, but I can't weep / Wake up but I don't sleep.' This internal conflict is a powerful expression of the human condition, where one can be overwhelmed by emotions yet unable to express them, caught in a state of limbo between consciousness and rest. Overall, 'It Is What It Is' is a poignant reflection on the human experience of grappling with the unalterable aspects of life and finding a way to live with them.