van Pearl Jam
The greatest question ever asked is one that has been around for centuries and still, to this day, has yet to find a perfect answer. What is the meaning of life? Scholars have studied, doctors have researched, and artists have expressed, all arriving at diverse conclusions regarding this very question. Despite this, there is one universal connection that every human being on this earth possesses. We all live.
Eddie Vedder proposes his own thoughts on life with his band Pearl Jam’s song, “Just Breathe.” Throughout the song, Vedder states the painfully obvious, yet to a surprisingly optimistic viewpoint.
“Yes I understand that every life must end, aw huh,
As we sit alone, I know someday we must go, aw huh.”
“Under everything, just another human being, aw huh,
Yeah, I don’t wanna hurt, there’s so much in this world
To make me bleed”
The optimism cannot truly be ascertained until the main focus of the song is sung, where Vedder requests, “Stay with me. Let’s just breathe.” The recipient of the song is obviously someone whom Vedder loves very much, arguably his current fiancé. Regardless, the song sends a universal message of hope for any individual who finds his or herself questioning the meaning of life. “Just Breathe” communicates the idea that life, while ephemeral, should be lived to the fullest each and every day. The song also makes the claim that life is better shared.
“Did I say that I need you?
Did I say that I want you?
Oh if I didn’t then I’m a fool you see,
No one knows this more than me.
As I come clean”
With these lines, Vedder is urging listeners to never forget the precious things in life and to never take them for granted. This, along with the entire framework of the song, expresses the sincere joy that should always accompany life. Yes, our time in this world is short, but spending each day focusing on the ultimate outcome of one’s life is moot. Relax, or as Vedder sings, “Just Breathe.”
... happily ever after 