What It Is

Kodaline's song "What It Is" delves into the uncertainties and challenges of life, capturing the essence of feeling lost and searching for direction. The opening lines set the scene in a metaphorical 'parking lot of life,' where the protagonist is contemplating their fate. This imagery suggests a moment of pause and reflection, a common experience when one feels stuck or unsure about the future. The car radio's advice, 'if you don't learn, then you will never know,' emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and personal growth, hinting that life's lessons are crucial for understanding one's path.

The song continues to explore themes of identity and destiny. The protagonist's struggle to remember who they are and the notion that their fate is 'written in the stars' reflect a sense of predestination versus self-determination. This duality is a central theme, as the lyrics suggest that while some aspects of life may be out of our control, we still have the power to shape our own destiny. The repeated refrain, 'nobody's gonna tell you how to live,' reinforces the idea of personal agency and the importance of forging one's own path, despite societal pressures or expectations.

In a broader context, the song comments on the ever-changing nature of the world and the difficulty of navigating it. The lines 'In a world that changes every day, it's easy to get lost along the way' and 'Where people try to buy and sell their dreams' highlight the disorienting and often superficial aspects of modern life. This critique of materialism and the commodification of dreams underscores the song's message about the importance of staying true to oneself. Ultimately, "What It Is" is a poignant reminder that while life is unpredictable and often challenging, the journey of self-discovery and personal growth is what gives it meaning.