Still Fighting It

“Still Fighting It” by Lee Chan Sol is a poignant reflection on the challenges and bittersweet moments of growing up, framed through the lens of a father speaking to his son. The song opens with a mundane yet intimate scene of a father offering his son breakfast, symbolizing the everyday moments that build the foundation of their relationship. The father’s casual mention of paying for the meal with spare change subtly underscores the sacrifices and small acts of love that parents often make for their children.

The chorus, “Everybody knows it hurts to grow up, and everybody does,” captures the universal struggle of maturing. The repetition of this line emphasizes the inevitability and shared nature of this experience. The father acknowledges the pain and confusion that come with growing up, but also the resilience required to keep moving forward. The phrase “we’re still fighting it” suggests that the struggle doesn’t end with adulthood; it’s an ongoing battle that spans generations.

In the second verse, the father imagines a future where he and his son can sit down and reflect on the past over a few beers. This vision of the future is both hopeful and melancholic, as it acknowledges the passage of time and the changes it brings. The father’s admission that “it was pain” and his recognition that his son will feel the same things he did, highlights the cyclical nature of life’s challenges. The song closes with a heartfelt apology, “And you’re so much like me, I’m sorry,” revealing the father’s deep empathy and understanding of the struggles his son will face, mirroring his own experiences.

“Still Fighting It” is a touching exploration of the complexities of growing up, the enduring bond between parent and child, and the shared human experience of navigating life’s ups and downs. It’s a reminder that while the journey may be difficult, it’s also filled with moments of connection and understanding that make it worthwhile.