Music has an incredible ability to touch our hearts, stir our emotions, and make us ponder life’s profound questions. One such song that continues to resonate with fans is Creed’s “What’s This Life For.” Through its haunting lyrics and powerful delivery, this track explores themes of existence, meaning, and human suffering. For young adults grappling with life’s big questions or anyone who has faced pain and loss, this song offers a sense of solace and understanding.
In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look into the meaning behind each verse and chorus of “What’s This Life For,” providing insights, interpretations, and reflections. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Creed or new to their music, this deep dive will offer you a richer appreciation of the song and its message.
The Meaning of “What’s This Life For” by Creed
Creed’s “What’s This Life For” resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the universal quest for meaning and purpose. Written during a time of personal turmoil and reflection, the song addresses the struggles we face in finding our place in the world. Its raw and introspective lyrics explore themes of existential angst, perseverance, and the search for hope amidst despair. By posing the poignant question in its title, Creed invites us to contemplate our own lives, urging us to seek out our true calling and understand the deeper significance of our existence. This powerful anthem not only connects with fans on an emotional level but also serves as a reminder that despite the challenges we encounter, there is always a reason to keep moving forward.
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Hurray for a child that makes it through
If there’s any way because the answer lies in you
They’re laid to rest before they’ve known just what to do
Their souls are lost because
They could never find
[Chorus 1]
What’s this life for? What’s this life for?
What’s this life for? What’s this life for?
[Chorus 2]
I see your soul, it’s kind of gray
You see my heart, you look away
You see my wrist, I know your pain
I know your purpose on your plane
Don’t say a last prayer because
You could never find
[Chorus 2]
I see your soul, it’s kind of gray
You see my heart, you look away
You see my wrist, I know your pain
I know your purpose on your plane
Don’t say a last prayer because
[Chorus 3]
But they aren’t here anymore
Don’t have to settle the score
Because we all live under the reign
Of one king
[Chorus 3]
But they aren’t here anymore
Don’t have to settle no goddamn score
Because we all live under the reign
Of just as you know of one king, one king, one king
[Chorus 3]
But they aren’t here anymore
Don’t have to settle no goddamn score
Because we all live under the reign
Of just as you know of one king, one king, one king
[Chorus 3]
But they aren’t here anymore
Don’t have to settle no goddamn score
Because we all live under the reign
Of one king
Verse 1: The Trials of Life
Hurray for a Child That Makes It Through
The song begins on a seemingly optimistic note. The line “Hurray for a child that makes it through” celebrates survival against the odds. The use of the word “child” suggests innocence and vulnerability, highlighting how life’s challenges can begin at a young age.
In many ways, this line speaks to everyone who has faced difficulties in their formative years. It’s a nod to resilience and the strength required to survive life’s early trials.
If There’s Any Way Because the Answer Lies in You
Here, the song shifts to a more introspective tone. The phrase “If there’s any way” implies seeking answers or solutions, while “the answer lies in you” emphasizes self-discovery and personal responsibility. This suggests that life’s meaning and solutions to its challenges are not external, but within ourselves.
This line can serve as a powerful reminder that, despite external circumstances, we have the ability to shape our destinies and find meaning in our lives.
They’re Laid to Rest Before They’ve Known Just What to Do
This poignant line addresses the tragedy of lives cut short. It speaks to those who have passed away before discovering their purpose or achieving their dreams. The phrase “laid to rest” is a gentle way of referring to death, adding a layer of sorrow and empathy.
Such a line can resonate deeply with listeners who have lost loved ones or feel they haven’t yet found their path in life. It underscores the fleeting nature of existence and the urgency of seeking meaning.
Chorus 1: Searching for Meaning
What’s This Life For? What’s This Life For?
The repetitive questioning in the chorus captures the existential angst that many people feel. By asking “What’s this life for?” repeatedly, the song emphasizes the importance of this question and the universal struggle to find answers.
This chorus serves as the emotional and thematic core of the song, inviting listeners to reflect on their own lives and search for personal significance.
Chorus 2: Empathy and Connection
I See Your Soul, It’s Kind of Gray
In this line, the singer expresses a sense of empathy and observation. Describing the soul as “kind of gray” implies a state of emotional ambiguity or dullness. It suggests that the person observed is neither entirely happy nor entirely sad, but stuck in a neutral, perhaps numbing, state.
This idea can resonate with anyone who has experienced emotional gray areas, where life feels monotonous or lacking in color and vibrancy.
You See My Heart, You Look Away
This line portrays a moment of vulnerability and rejection. Showing one’s heart implies openness and honesty, but the reaction—looking away—indicates avoidance or discomfort. This dynamic can reflect experiences of failed communication or emotional disconnection.
For listeners, this line might evoke feelings of being misunderstood or ignored, highlighting the difficulty of forming genuine connections.
You See My Wrist, I Know Your Pain
The mention of “wrist” can be interpreted as a reference to self-harm, a cry for help, or an indication of deep emotional pain. By stating “I know your pain,” the singer establishes a shared experience, creating a bond of mutual understanding and empathy.
This line can be particularly powerful for those who have struggled with mental health issues, offering a reminder that they are not alone in their suffering.
I Know Your Purpose on Your Plane
This line introduces the idea of purpose and existence on a different “plane,” suggesting another level of reality or consciousness. It implies that there is a reason for being, even if it is not immediately apparent.
For listeners, this can be a comforting thought—that there is a greater plan or purpose beyond what we can see and understand in our daily lives.
Don’t Say a Last Prayer Because You Could Never Find
This line warns against giving up or resigning oneself to despair. By advising not to say a “last prayer,” the song encourages perseverance and continuous searching for meaning, even when it seems elusive.
For anyone feeling lost or hopeless, this line serves as a motivational push to keep striving and seeking answers.
Chorus 3: Unity and Higher Power
But They Aren’t Here Anymore
This line acknowledges loss and absence, referring to those who have passed away. It brings a sense of finality and the reality of death, which can be a sobering thought for listeners.
This acknowledgment of loss can resonate deeply with anyone grieving, offering a moment of shared sorrow and reflection.
Don’t Have to Settle the Score
This line suggests letting go of grudges, anger, or a need for revenge. By stating that there is no need to “settle the score,” the song promotes forgiveness and moving forward, rather than dwelling on past wrongs.
For listeners, this can be a powerful reminder to release negative emotions and focus on healing and growth.
Because We All Live Under the Reign of One King
Introducing the concept of a “king” implies a higher power or divine authority. This line suggests that everyone is equal under this higher power, bringing a sense of unity and shared existence.
This message can be uplifting for listeners, providing a sense of belonging and connection to something greater than themselves.
Exploring the Themes of Creed’s “What’s This Life For”
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
One of the central themes of the song is resilience. The lyrics celebrate those who make it through life’s challenges, emphasizing the strength and endurance required to overcome adversity. This theme resonates with anyone who has faced difficult times and emerged stronger.
Through its verses, the song offers a message of hope and encouragement, reminding listeners of their inner strength and capacity to survive and thrive.
The Search for Meaning
The repeated questioning of “What’s this life for?” highlights the universal quest for meaning and purpose. This theme is particularly relevant for young adults and anyone at a crossroads in life, seeking direction and clarity.
The song encourages introspection and self-discovery, prompting listeners to explore their own beliefs, values, and goals.
Empathy and Shared Pain
By acknowledging shared pain and suffering, the song fosters a sense of empathy and connection among listeners. It recognizes the common struggles that people face, offering a sense of solidarity and understanding.
This theme is powerful in creating a bond between the song and its audience, making listeners feel seen and validated in their experiences.
Forgiveness and Moving Forward
The lyrics’ emphasis on letting go of grudges and not needing to “settle the score” promotes forgiveness and moving forward. This theme encourages personal growth and emotional healing, urging listeners to release negative emotions and focus on positive change.
For anyone holding onto past hurts, this message serves as a gentle reminder to seek peace and resolution.
Faith and Higher Power
The reference to living under the “reign of one king” introduces a spiritual dimension to the song. It suggests faith in a higher power and the idea that there is a greater plan or purpose beyond human understanding.
This theme can provide comfort and reassurance to listeners, offering a sense of divine guidance and protection.
Conclusion
Creed’s “What’s This Life For” is more than just a song—it’s a powerful exploration of life’s biggest questions and challenges. Through its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery, the song touches on themes of resilience, meaning, empathy, forgiveness, and faith.
For anyone grappling with these issues, the song offers a sense of solace and understanding. It reminds us that, despite life’s difficulties, we have the inner strength to persevere, the capacity for empathy and connection, and the potential to find meaning and purpose.