Sailin' On

Bad Brains' song 'Sailin' On' is a powerful anthem of resilience and moving forward after a painful breakup. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and heartache, as the protagonist realizes that their trust has been misused and their heart has been torn apart. The opening lines, 'You don't want me anymore / So I'll just walk right out that door,' set the stage for a narrative of emotional liberation. The protagonist decides to leave behind the pain and move on, symbolized by the recurring motif of 'sailin' on.' This metaphor of sailing suggests a journey towards healing and new beginnings, away from the turbulent waters of a broken relationship.

The song also touches on the inevitability of life's struggles and the importance of perseverance. Lines like 'Try to see if I'll give up / But there wasn't any luck' highlight the protagonist's determination to keep moving forward despite the challenges. The phrase 'That's a fact, a fact of life / That's the game, game of strife' acknowledges that hardship is an inherent part of life, but it is something that can be overcome. The repetition of 'sail on' serves as a mantra of sorts, reinforcing the idea of continuous movement and progress.

'Sailin' On' also reflects on the passage of time and the accumulation of emotional scars. The lyrics 'There's too many years with too many tears / Too many days with nothin' to say' capture the weariness that comes from prolonged emotional suffering. The song questions the future and the potential for growth, asking 'How will we know when there's nowhere to grow?' This introspective line suggests a moment of self-reflection and the search for meaning in the aftermath of a relationship. Ultimately, 'Sailin' On' is a testament to the strength and resilience required to navigate the storms of life and emerge stronger on the other side.