Meaning of "Tryin' Times" by Roberta Flack

In "Tryin' Times," Roberta Flack explores the state of the world during a period of turmoil and highlights the various conflicts and divisions that exist. The lyrics mention the breakdown of family bonds, with mothers against daughters and fathers against sons, reflecting the deep-seated discord present in society. Flack suggests that these issues arise from a lack of love and empathy for one another. If people were to show more compassion and understanding towards their fellow human beings, much of the suffering could be alleviated. The song also touches on the riots in the ghetto, representing the broader social unrest that was prevalent in the era. Flack questions the reasons behind these conflicts, wondering how people fail to understand the importance of treating others as they would like to be treated. She calls for individuals to take responsibility and make an effort to build a better land.

The lyrics also address the concept of "man's inhumanity to man," pointing out the hypocrisy of talking about it without taking action to improve the situation. Flack challenges listeners to reflect on what they are personally doing to contribute to a better society and suggests that simply reading about issues in the newspaper or watching demonstrations on television is not enough. The song serves as a poignant reminder that love and understanding are crucial in overcoming the challenges that humanity faces. It highlights the need for people to come together, show empathy towards one another, and work towards a more harmonious and equitable world.