Meaning of "Young Man" by Justin Timberlake

"Young Man" by Justin Timberlake is a heartfelt message from a father figure to a young man, likely his son. The lyrics serve as a guidance and inspiration for the young man to follow the right path in life. The repeated phrase, "Sit down, let me tell you how it's s'posed to be," suggests that the speaker is experienced and has wisdom to impart. They want the young man to understand the need for purpose and resilience in life, explaining that to make God smile, he must have plans and be ready to face challenges. The mention of the young man's mother being beautiful and the potential for a sister indicates the importance of respecting and valuing women. The advice to "clear your system" implies the need to rid oneself of negative influences or behaviors in order to attract a deserving partner.

The lyrics also touch on the emotions and vulnerability that come with being a young man. The speaker gives the young man permission to cry, highlighting the importance of emotional expression. They emphasize that by listening and being open, the young man can achieve anything. The song encourages perseverance and resilience, reminding the young man that they should never back down or stay down when faced with adversity. It expresses unwavering support by assuring the young man that the speaker will always be there for him. The mention of the speaker's own experiences as a young man adds credibility to their advice.

The song concludes by acknowledging the inevitable heartbreak the young man will face as he grows older and enters romantic relationships. The speaker assures the young man that he will be there for him during those hard times, just as he will be there when the young man inevitably breaks someone's heart. The lyrics convey a sense of pride and love from the speaker, emphasizing that the young man will never be alone and that he has a strong support system. They close by affirming their love for the young man, expressing how much they cherish and adore him.

Overall, "Young Man" is a touching and introspective song that imparts wisdom, guidance, and emotional support to a young man as he navigates life's challenges and experiences.