Our Word

The song "Our Word" by the Original Cast of 36 Questions delves into the complexities of family dynamics, secrets, and the lengths people go to protect their loved ones. The narrative is told from the perspective of a woman reflecting on her childhood and the lessons she learned about deception and loyalty. The story begins with a young girl accidentally breaking a boat in a bottle in her father's study, a place she wasn't supposed to be. Her mother teaches her to lie to avoid punishment, setting the stage for a life built on secrets and half-truths.

As the girl grows older, the pattern of deception continues. She learns to fabricate achievements to please her parents and hide her mistakes to maintain peace. The song highlights three significant moments where she nearly ruined her life, only to be saved by her parents' willingness to lie and cover up her actions. This cycle of deceit becomes a coping mechanism, a way to navigate the pressures and expectations placed upon her. The lyrics poignantly capture the emotional toll of living a life where truth is malleable and trust is conditional.

The song reaches a climax when the protagonist, now an adult, faces a life-threatening situation. As she contemplates her potential death, she imagines her parents' reaction, realizing that even in her absence, they would continue to manipulate the truth to protect themselves. This realization underscores the song's central theme: the corrosive nature of lies and the isolation it breeds. The repeated refrain of "our word against theirs" emphasizes the us-versus-them mentality that has defined her family's interactions with the world, ultimately leaving her feeling disconnected and alone.