Coming Of Age

Foster The People's 'Coming Of Age' is a reflective piece that delves into the emotional journey of maturing and the internal conflicts that accompany it. The song opens with a vivid image of a person standing with 'crying eyes,' which could symbolize the vulnerability and pain that often come with personal growth. The narrator expresses a desire to comfort this person, suggesting a sense of empathy and understanding of the struggles faced during the process of coming of age.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of regret and the consequences of one's actions. The line 'I tend to leave a trail of dead while I'm moving ahead' metaphorically speaks to the idea that progress and personal development can sometimes come at a cost, potentially hurting others unintentionally. This acknowledgment of past mistakes and the determination to move forward without repeating them is a hallmark of maturity. The song's chorus, repeating the phrase 'feels like a coming of age,' reinforces the central theme of transformation and the sense of an imminent personal breakthrough.

The song's bridge further explores the struggle between pride and vulnerability. The narrator admits to hurting those closest to them and compares their defensive behavior to that of an animal protecting its pride. This introspection and the recognition of personal flaws are indicative of the self-awareness that comes with growing up. The repeated declaration of 'feels like a coming of age' serves as both an affirmation of growth and a mantra to embrace the changes that come with it, suggesting a readiness to turn a new page and start anew.