Meaning of "Cheers to the Fall" by Andra Day

The lyrics of "Cheers to the Fall" encourage a mindset of resilience and determination in the face of obstacles. The song starts by challenging the notion of always following the conventional path, suggesting that sometimes going against the grain can lead to greater success. The artist embraces her uniqueness and rejects conforming to societal expectations, symbolized by the metaphor of not drawing inside the lines. She recognizes that attempting to fit into a predefined role or pursuing perfection is not necessary for success; rather, she believes in making the best of the hand she's dealt with and refusing to fold.

The chorus emphasizes the idea that even though there may be risks and setbacks in pursuit of one's goals, it is better to try and fail than to live a life devoid of trying at all. The lyrics refute the idea that failure is synonymous with defeat and instead suggest that it is a natural part of the journey towards success. The line "Cheers to the fall" serves as a celebration of the artist's tenacity and willingness to take risks, acknowledging that growth and progress can come from setbacks.

The song also touches on the theme of unsolicited advice and the artist's decision to take it in stride. This reflects a sense of self-assuredness and an understanding that she must pave her own path, even if others may not understand or support her choices. It signifies the importance of trusting one's instincts and personal experience rather than relying solely on external opinions.

Overall, "Cheers to the Fall" delivers an empowering message of resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to take risks. It encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness, reject societal expectations, and persist in the face of challenges, celebrating the journey and growth that comes from trying and failing.