Meaning of "To Live a Life" by First Aid Kit

The lyrics of "To Live a Life" by First Aid Kit explore themes of longing, lost love, and self-discovery. The narrator begins the song by acknowledging their need to find redemption and writes a letter in an attempt to heal a part of themselves that they had thought was gone forever. However, it becomes evident that the relationship was doomed from the start, with the narrator being too eager and the other person too smart. The constant search for the person in empty rooms highlights the narrator's deep longing and inability to let go. They turn to alcohol as a means of escapism, trying to pass the time and distract themselves from their feelings. However, the reliance on cheap wine only causes them to fall behind and further distance themselves from the person they desire.

The lyrics also delve into the narrator's reflection on their own identity, drawing parallels between themselves and their mother. Both share a propensity for chasing impossible things and unreachable dreams, leading to a sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction. The sleepless nights spent questioning the choices made underline the narrator's realization that living a life alone is the only way forward. The dream that the narrator and the other person shared slowly fades away, leaving the narrator with the understanding that they must move on and choose their own path.

Ultimately, the lyrics of "To Live a Life" capture the complexities of love, longing, and the struggle to find one's true self. It explores the pain of lost love and the search for redemption, as well as the realization that sometimes it is necessary to let go and embrace a life lived alone. The introspective nature of the lyrics invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and self-discovery.