Try Honesty

Billy Talent's 'Try Honesty' is a raw and intense exploration of personal anguish and the desperate need for truth. The song opens with vivid imagery of physical pain and vulnerability, symbolized by the lines 'I tripped, I fell down naked' and 'I scratched my knees, they bled.' These lines set the tone for a narrative that delves into emotional and psychological turmoil. The plea to 'sew up my eyes' suggests a desire to escape from the harsh realities of life, while the assertion that 'in our game there is no score' hints at a sense of futility and disillusionment.

The recurring refrain 'Forgive me, father, why should ya bother? Try honesty, try honesty' serves as a central theme of the song. It reflects a cry for genuine connection and truth in a world filled with deceit and superficiality. The mention of a 'dump truck' and the act of being 'ridden over' metaphorically represent the crushing weight of dishonesty and betrayal. The song's protagonist feels overwhelmed by the falsehoods around them, leading to a sense of insanity and blame, as expressed in the lines 'I'm insane, it's your fault, so sly. Your well of lies ran dry.'

The song's intensity is further amplified by its aggressive and fast-paced musical style, characteristic of Billy Talent's punk rock roots. The repeated calls to 'cry agony' and 'die, tragedy' underscore the depth of the protagonist's suffering and the dramatic impact of dishonesty on their mental state. Ultimately, 'Try Honesty' is a powerful anthem that captures the pain of living in a world where truth is scarce and the emotional toll it takes on individuals seeking authenticity and honesty in their relationships and interactions.