Meaning of "Just Trying To Be" by Jethro Tull

The lyrics of "Just Trying To Be" by Jethro Tull touch upon themes of conformity, pressure to fit in, and the longing for authenticity. The speaker reminisces about a time in their past when they were manipulated by those around them to conform to their expectations, only receiving love and approval when they complied. This pressure to conform led to feelings of rejection and loneliness, as the speaker struggled to express their true self. The emphasis on the idea of being "just trying to be" highlights the internal struggle to break free from societal norms and expectations in order to be true to oneself. The lyrics suggest a sense of disillusionment with the world, where the speaker questions the authenticity of their experiences and wonders if everything is just a dream. Overall, the song reflects on the complexities of identity, the search for genuine connection, and the desire to break free from the constraints of society.