Meaning of "That's Life" by Van Morrison

"That's Life" by Van Morrison captures the essence of life's unpredictable nature and the resilience required to navigate its ups and downs. The lyrics convey a deep sense of self-awareness and acceptance, acknowledging that setbacks are inevitable but that the key is to keep pushing forward. The reference to being a "puppet, pauper, pirate, poet, pawn, and king" suggests the diverse experiences one encounters throughout life, from feeling powerless to triumphant. Despite facing moments of discouragement and contemplating giving up, the singer's unwavering determination shines through as he expresses his refusal to succumb to defeat. The repetition of "I've been up, down, over and out" emphasizes the cyclical nature of life's challenges and triumphs. Ultimately, the message of the song is one of resilience, urging listeners to pick themselves up and keep moving forward, no matter how tough life gets.