Hold it Down

Noah Kahan's song 'Hold it Down' delves into the emotional turmoil of dealing with self-doubt, failure, and the struggle to maintain composure in the face of life's challenges. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone spinning in circles, feeling lost and overwhelmed by their own excuses and the walls they've built around themselves. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative of self-destruction and the constant battle to keep it together.

The chorus, with its repetition of 'I hold it down,' serves as a mantra for the protagonist, a reminder to stay grounded despite the anger, doubt, and fear that real life brings. The line 'failure's a stranger we all dream about' suggests that failure is an inevitable part of the human experience, something everyone fears but must confront. The act of 'holding it down' becomes a way to cope with these universal feelings, a method of pushing through the darkness and uncertainty.

Kahan's lyrics also touch on themes of guilt and redemption. The verse 'I gave up my soul without knowing the stakes' speaks to the regret of past actions and the realization of their consequences. The transformation of 'guilty skin' to stone symbolizes a hardening of the heart, a defense mechanism against further pain. Yet, despite these heavy themes, the song carries a message of resilience. By 'holding it down,' the protagonist acknowledges their struggles but refuses to be defeated by them, seeking answers and striving to let go of their burdens.

The song's emotional depth is enhanced by Kahan's folk-influenced musical style, which often features introspective lyrics and a raw, honest vocal delivery. This combination creates a powerful connection with listeners, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences with doubt and failure, and to find strength in the act of holding it down.