The speaker reflects on the different stages of their life, from joy and growth to feeling like a toy and a flag to eventually becoming a myth and death. They acknowledge feeling out of place and ultimately assert their desire to be left alone.

Meaning of "My Life" by Phil Ochs

The lyrics of "My Life" by Phil Ochs delve into the various phases of the speaker's life, highlighting a progression from innocence and joy to disillusionment and a desire for solitude. The speaker originally found joy and melodic sweetness in life, but as they evolved, they started feeling like a mere puppet, waving a flag and losing control. This loss of control leads to a sense of alienation, feeling out of place, and ultimately desiring to be left alone. The speaker grapples with societal pressures, illusions, and the passage of time, ultimately yearning for authenticity and solitude in the face of a world that feels suffocatingly artificial.