:(

The Garden's song ":(" is a raw and candid exploration of the struggles and frustrations that come with navigating life's unpredictable journey. The lyrics reflect a sense of disillusionment and irritation with the superficial aspects of fame and societal expectations. The opening lines, "We all make mistakes / And one of mine was putting up with the horse shit," set the tone for a song that is unapologetically honest about the artist's experiences and regrets. The mention of press and photo shoots highlights the often hollow nature of public attention, suggesting that it can be more of a burden than a blessing.

The song also delves into the theme of resilience and self-reliance. Lines like "Never looking good makes me a bankroll / To make sure that I'm stable" reveal a pragmatic approach to life's challenges. The artist acknowledges the necessity of financial stability, even if it means enduring less-than-ideal circumstances. This pragmatic outlook is further emphasized with the line, "So if I crash my car and need insurance then I'm able," underscoring the importance of being prepared for life's inevitable setbacks.

In the latter part of the song, there's a shift towards a more defiant and determined tone. The repeated phrase "Stay lit" serves as a mantra for perseverance and maintaining one's spirit despite external pressures. The reference to the DMV and the casual mention of a character from SpongeBob add a layer of everyday relatability, grounding the song's more abstract themes in real-world experiences. Ultimately, ":(" is a testament to the artist's journey of self-discovery and the ongoing struggle to stay true to oneself in a world that often demands conformity.