Against The Grain

City and Colour's song 'Against The Grain' is a poignant exploration of resilience and inner strength. The lyrics, penned by Dallas Green, emphasize the importance of following one's heart amidst life's challenges. The song opens with a series of reassurances, suggesting that one doesn't need to achieve grandiose feats or solve all their problems to find peace. Instead, it encourages a more introspective approach, focusing on personal strength and emotional resilience.

The recurring line, 'You must follow your heart,' serves as the song's central mantra. This phrase is a powerful reminder that, even when external circumstances are bleak—when friends have left, happiness seems distant, and words are misunderstood—one's inner compass can provide guidance. The metaphor of the wind flowing 'against the grain' symbolizes the inevitable struggles and adversities that life presents. Yet, the song insists that these moments of darkness are precisely when one should trust their heart the most.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics delve deeper into feelings of abandonment and despair. The imagery of wounds that refuse to heal and a winding wheel of love suggests a cyclical nature of pain and recovery. Even when faced with the ultimate finality of death, the song's message remains steadfast: the heart is the true guide. This emphasis on emotional authenticity and personal truth resonates deeply, offering solace and encouragement to listeners facing their own trials.

'Against The Grain' is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of inner guidance. It speaks to the universal experience of hardship and the profound strength found in following one's heart, no matter the circumstances.