4x4

Dominic Fike's song "4x4" delves into the themes of loss, disillusionment, and the journey of self-discovery. The lyrics paint a poignant picture of someone grappling with the death of a loved one, symbolized by the imagery of a cemetery and a flower across the chest. The recurring motif of praying to the sky and to a God who won't bring back the dead underscores the futility and helplessness felt in the face of irreversible loss. This emotional struggle is further highlighted by the lines about tears drying up and the weight of sorrow making youthful days seem distant.

The song also explores the idea of disillusionment with childhood beliefs and fairy tales. The lyrics suggest that the love and happy endings promised in those stories were part of a lie, leading to a sense of betrayal and confusion as one grows older. This theme is encapsulated in the lines about being misinformed as a child and realizing that not every kiss is royal, nor does every godmother fly. The song reflects on how these realizations can make life's challenges seem more daunting and the past more idyllic than it truly was.

Despite the heavy themes, "4x4" offers a message of resilience and self-determination. The chorus, with its repetition of "Four-by-four, you build your own life story," serves as a reminder that, despite the pain and disillusionment, one has the power to shape their own narrative. This metaphor of building one's life story suggests a process of reconstruction and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of forging one's path and finding meaning in the face of adversity. The song ultimately encourages listeners to take control of their lives and create their own stories, even when faced with the harsh realities of life.