Meaning of "Young & Free" by Dermot Kennedy

The lyrics of "Young & Free" explore themes of youth, freedom, and the transient nature of life. The speaker confronts the uncertainty of the future, asking themselves where they should go from here. They find themselves in a moment of transition, with the arrival of the night and the heavy snowfall symbolizing an imminent change. The speaker reflects on past experiences, particularly their time spent with their close friends ("my boys and me"), emphasizing the importance of these relationships and the shared sense of wandering aimlessly.

The speaker acknowledges the temporary nature of their current situation, telling themselves that whatever they are going through will pass. They mention the bridge from Brooklyn to Manhattan, which serves as a metaphor for the communication and connection between people. The speaker emphasizes the sincerity of their words, expressing their desire to have all of the experiences they crave all the time. This longing for the fullness of life suggests a fear of missing out or a yearning for a deeper sense of fulfillment.

The chorus, "We were young, we were free," serves as both a nostalgic reflection and an anthem for embracing the present. It suggests a wistful longing for the carefree days of youth, a time when responsibilities and burdens seemed lighter. The repetition of the line "I was living in the cold, I'm coming home" further emphasizes this desire to return to a place of comfort and familiarity. The speaker mentions that their heart was never meant for the challenges they face, hinting at their vulnerability and the struggle to reconcile their inner self with the external world.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of memories and their lasting impact. The line "All that she said to me stays with me, never to die" suggests that the speaker carries the words of someone important to them, preserving them forever. The silence that went through the pines signifies a profound and meaningful moment, perhaps indicating a moment of clarity or self-reflection. Despite the ghosts of the past that haunt the speaker, they find solace in the knowledge that someone will always remain near, making their journey ahead hopeful.

The repetition of the line "Keepin' another for a night, keepin' another for a night" suggests a pattern of searching for temporary solutions or distractions to numb the pain or fill the void. This behavior implies a sense of recklessness or impulsive actions that may lead to self-destruction. However, the speaker acknowledges that they were bound to burn, suggesting that some experiences are inevitable and necessary for growth.

Overall, "Young & Free" portrays a longing for the simplicity and freedom of youth while navigating the complexities of adulthood and the passage of time. It captures the bittersweet nature of life, acknowledging both the joy and pain that comes with it. Despite the challenges, the lyrics convey a sense of resilience and hope, with the speaker's desire to find a place that feels like home.