Meaning of "Holding Out" by Eleventyseven

The lyrics of "Holding Out" delve into the struggles and discontentment that many individuals face in the modern world. The narrative voice in the song describes a deep sense of dissatisfaction with the way their life is unfolding. They feel suffocated by the demands of staying connected and relevant in a fast-paced, technology-driven society. The line "Is this what I'm paying for staying relevant this season?" reveals their frustration with the constant pressure to conform and meet societal expectations. The mention of the narrator's bank account symbolizes the financial strain they experience, potentially due to the sacrifices they have made for their ambitions. Furthermore, the reference to friends asking about having children hints at the societal pressures to conform to traditional milestones.

The chorus emphasizes the narrator's exhaustion and longing for a more fulfilling life. They express their weariness of merely existing for the weekends and feeling as though they are barely keeping their head above water. The comparison to David Bowie, a legendary artist known for his artistic brilliance and innovation, further conveys the weight of their pressures. Bowie is presented as a symbol of the need for artistic breakthroughs and escape from the mundane, suggesting that the narrator feels creatively stifled. The reference to being "chained to this millennial treadmill" captures the feeling of being trapped in a never-ending cycle of meaningless work and stress. The mention of terrorists highlights the external threats that can intensify the narrator's stress and anxiety.

The bridge and final repetition of the chorus emphasize the narrator's longing for a more meaningful life experience. They yearn for something beyond the monotonous routine, expressing a desire to break free from the relentless cycle of repetitive weeks. The line "It's like a wave that I can't outrun" suggests that they feel trapped and overwhelmed, unable to escape the constant pressures and demands of their lifestyle.

Overall, "Holding Out" by Eleventyseven delves into the frustrations and disappointments of living in a modern society that often prioritizes conformity and external validation. The lyrics convey a longing for authenticity, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment beyond societal expectations.