DON'T TRY

Health's song 'DON'T TRY' delves into themes of memory, isolation, and existential despair. The repeated phrase 'Don't try' serves as a mantra of resignation, suggesting a sense of futility in attempting to change or escape one's circumstances. The lyrics 'Stare in the mirror' and 'I'm not here' reflect a profound disconnection from self and reality, indicating a struggle with identity and presence. This disconnection is further emphasized by the lines 'I'm not living' and 'I'm just waiting around,' portraying a life that feels stagnant and devoid of purpose.

The song also explores the burden of memory. The lines 'I've been forced to remember / So much more than today' and 'I've no choice but to take with me / Everything I wanted to say' suggest an overwhelming compulsion to hold onto the past, even when it is painful. This is compounded by the imagery of 'Islands caught in the middle / Islands unto ourselves,' which evokes a sense of isolation and being trapped within one's own mind. The repetition of 'I've been forced to remember / Everything I want to forget' underscores the torment of being unable to escape past traumas and regrets.

Additionally, the song touches on the fear of the future and the inevitability of time. The lines 'The future's here / And there's no way out' convey a sense of dread and helplessness in the face of an uncertain future. The recurring theme of being 'just a face in the crowd' highlights feelings of insignificance and anonymity, further contributing to the song's overall mood of despair and isolation. Health's use of stark, minimalist lyrics and haunting melodies amplifies these themes, creating a powerful and introspective listening experience.