100 Years
Five For Fighting
The Journey Through Life's Seasons in '100 Years'
The song '100 Years' by Five For Fighting, performed by singer-songwriter John Ondrasik, is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the stages of life. The lyrics take the listener on a journey through various ages, highlighting the different experiences, emotions, and milestones that one encounters along the way.
The song begins with the narrator at age 15, a time of dreams and the cusp of youth and adulthood. It then moves through snapshots of life at ages 22, 33, 45, and beyond, each verse representing a distinct phase of life with its own challenges and joys. At 22, there's a sense of invincibility and romance; at 33, the focus shifts to family and responsibility; at 45, there's a hint of midlife crisis and reflection. The song culminates with the narrator at 99, looking back and still dreaming, emphasizing the brevity of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
The recurring line 'When you only got 100 years to live' serves as a powerful reminder of life's finite nature and the urgency to live fully. The song's gentle melody and introspective lyrics resonate with listeners of all ages, as it touches on universal themes of growth, aging, and the human condition. '100 Years' encourages us to appreciate the present and make the most of the time we have, as each stage of life offers its unique opportunities and lessons.