Meaning of "Change" by Jack Johnson

"Change" by Jack Johnson delves into the theme of constant change and the challenges it presents in life. The lyrics suggest that just when we become accustomed to our surroundings and ourselves, more changes come our way, disrupting our sense of stability. The song contrasts the feeling of getting used to a place, our bones, and the changes themselves, highlighting that change is relentless and ever-present. Johnson suggests that no matter how much we catch up with the pace of change, the tough get going and trust can be broken, further reinforcing the unpredictable nature of life.

Through the repetition of the lines, "All these changes, Different stages, Turning page after page after page," Johnson emphasizes the continuous nature of change. These lines create a sense of repetition and progression, symbolizing the never-ending cycle of transformations. The increasing strangeness day by day reflects the disorientation that can accompany change, as the familiar becomes unfamiliar and the world becomes more complicated.

The lyrics also convey a sense of resilience and an urging to keep moving forward. Johnson advises to set our eyes straight ahead and not look down when we cross, metaphorically encouraging us to stay focused on our goals and not be overwhelmed by the challenges that come our way. The line, "And pay no mind to time it's a punch line, the joke is on all of us," suggests that time, with its ever-passing nature, is a punch line in the joke of life. It implies that we should not let time control us or define our experiences, as the joke is on everyone; change and the passing of time affect us all.

Overall, "Change" by Jack Johnson conveys a message of embracing the inevitability of change and learning to navigate through it. It highlights the universal nature of change, as well as its capacity to disrupt and disorient. The lyrics encourage resilience, forward momentum, and the ability to adapt to the ever-shifting circumstances of life.