Released: 2017
“So Young” by Portugal. The Man is a vibrant, reflective piece that melds existential musing with a youthful defiance against the traditional paths laid before us. At its core, this song is an anthem for those standing at the crossroads of life, choosing between forging their own destiny or succumbing to societal pressures. It’s a rallying cry for individualism and personal discovery in a world often too hurried to find one’s true self.
The opening lines “So young, just begun / Don’t need to live to know / What I’ll become” encapsulate the essence of youthful anticipation mixed with a hint of existential dread. The song immediately taps into this universal feeling of being on the brink of life’s journey, yet somewhat aware of the inevitable end. The mention of waking up “Still in your make-up” paints a vivid picture of resilience and the rough-and-tumble of life’s challenges, suggestive of enduring through the night’s trials without losing one’s essence.
The chorus, “I don’t need to make amends / But I’m done going undercover / I just want to find a friend / I don’t need another lover,” is a declaration of seeking genuine connections over superficial relationships or societal appeasement. Here, the band touches on the desire to break free from the pretense of fitting in, favoring authenticity and companionship on their own terms.
As we dig deeper, verses like “So young, loaded gun / Oblivious to what the trigger does” introduce an element of naivety and the perilous thrill of youth, symbolizing how the young are often unaware of the consequences of their actions. The imagery of being “Knocked out with the Midas touch / A champion wearing golden gloves” uses the myth of Midas and the world of boxing to discuss the allure of success and the brutal reality of achieving it—underscoring the often painful journey to realizing one’s dreams.
The lyrical journey progresses towards a resolution in the spirit of defiance and hope with “We’re gonna live forever,” which, while hyperbolic, serves to underscore a refusal to be diminished by life’s fleeting nature. The song’s latter parts, “Ooh it’s troubling / When the belly of the beast starts rumbling,” evoke a sense of imminent danger or conflict, perhaps pointing to the inner turmoil or societal challenges one faces while forging their path. Yet, despite the trials and the heated “summer in the city,” there’s a continued assertion of survival and the relentless pursuit of personal truth.
In essence, “So Young” by Portugal. The Man is not just about the recklessness or the undirected ambition of youth; it’s a nuanced exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the quest for meaningful connections amidst life’s chaos. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the weight of forging their path while the specter of conformity looms large. Through its electric melodies and poignant lyrics, it celebrates the beauty of being “so young” and the uncharted journeys that shape us.
