Rougher Kids

Joel Faviere's song 'Rougher Kids' delves into the tumultuous journey of a person grappling with inner demons and societal pressures. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels out of place and disconnected, as indicated by the line 'I got a different set of eyes.' This sense of alienation is further emphasized by the recurring theme of regret and the struggle to find solace, symbolized by 'puffin' on my last cigarette.' The protagonist's invincibility to the 'rougher kids' suggests a hardened exterior, a defense mechanism against a harsh world.

The song also explores the impact of substance abuse and mental health struggles. The lines 'Medicated, drugged up / Fucked up / State of mind' highlight the protagonist's reliance on substances to cope with their reality. This self-destructive behavior is a common theme in Faviere's music, reflecting his own battles with addiction and mental health. The repetition of 'It's a game, it's a game' underscores the cyclical nature of these struggles, where the protagonist feels trapped in a never-ending loop of pain and deception.

Family dynamics and personal loss are also central to the narrative. The mention of 'Two brothers with broken lives / Two black hearts in my mother's eyes' suggests a family torn apart by addiction and despair. The protagonist's determination to avoid the same fate, 'I watched drugs take his life / And they're sure as hell not takin' mine,' reveals a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. However, the journey to recovery is slow and arduous, as indicated by the repeated phrase 'it's takin' time.' The song's haunting melody and raw lyrics create a powerful portrayal of the struggles faced by those living on the fringes of society.