Meaning of "For Nothing" by OSI

The lyrics of "For Nothing" by OSI delve into themes of hope, despair, and the inevitable cycle of disappointment that life can bring. The speaker expresses a lack of faith in the future, feeling downtrodden by broken promises and the harsh reality of growing up. The mention of being seventeen alludes to a time of innocence or naivety, contrasting sharply with the hardships that come with adulthood. The repeated refrain of "Gonna stay, can't stay" highlights a sense of being trapped in a situation, unable to escape the despair that surrounds them. The imagery of hope being likened to a candle that eventually fades away into nothing further emphasizes the fleeting nature of optimism in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the seeds of nothing that are mentioned at the end symbolize the futility of holding onto hope when faced with the harshness of reality.