Meaning of "Army" by Ben Folds

The song "Army" by Ben Folds delves into themes of youth, rebellion, and disillusionment. The protagonist starts off with the idea of joining the army, showing a lack of direction and a desire to break away from societal expectations. However, this decision is met with criticism from his father, which leads him to drop out of college and pursue a musical career. The constant cycle of failure and rejection depicted in the lyrics reflects the harsh realities of trying to find success in a competitive world. The mention of writing a screenplay and going to LA symbolizes the protagonist's aspirations and desire for recognition. Despite facing setbacks and feeling haunted by his past, there is still a glimmer of hope and determination in his thoughts. Overall, the song captures the struggle of finding one's place in the world and the resilience needed to keep pushing forward despite obstacles.