Meaning of "How to Get By" by Kellermensch
"How to Get By" delves into the universal theme of facing adversity and seeking solace in times of trouble. The speaker muses on the contrasting lifestyles in distant lands, highlighting the human experience of pain and loss. The repeated question of how to endure life's challenges underscores a search for guidance and resilience. The longing for a departed loved one adds a personal dimension to the existential contemplation, emphasizing the interplay between individual relationships and the broader struggle of existence. The references to literature, philosophy, and art suggest a quest for understanding and meaning in the face of hardship. Ultimately, the song's conclusion offers a sobering insight: in the midst of despair, fear of death may paradoxically provide a motive to keep going. It recognizes the fragility of life and the necessity of finding ways to persevere, even when the path forward seems uncertain.