Meaning of "Pride" by American Authors

"Pride" explores the themes of identity, self-acceptance, and perseverance. The lyrics capture a sense of homesickness and a longing for the past. The speaker reflects on how their home and the people around them have changed, causing them to question their own place and worth in the world. They feel like an outsider ("Like a fish out of water") and wonder if they truly belong. However, amidst this uncertainty, the speaker maintains a strong sense of pride and refuses to give up. This pride serves as a source of strength and motivation for the speaker to keep going, even when they feel inadequate. The repeated refrain of "I ain't never giving up, I ain't never ever, I ain't never ever giving up my pride" emphasizes the speaker's determination to remain true to themselves and hold onto their self-worth.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of personal growth and transformation. The speaker mentions their father, acknowledging his influence and possibly contrasting his qualities to their own. They express a desire to become someone worthy and good enough for others, suggesting a journey of self-improvement. The line "But I'm never gonna lose, I'm never giving up my pride" reflects the speaker's refusal to let go of their dignity and sense of self, even in the face of challenges and uncertainty. Through these lyrics, American Authors encourage listeners to embrace their own identities, find strength in their pride, and persevere in the face of adversity.