Meaning of "My Waterloo" by Walter Becker

The lyrics of "My Waterloo" delve into themes of solitude, perseverance, and accepting defeat. The narrator expresses a sentiment of being far from home, having traveled a difficult path to their current position. Despite wearing their heart on their sleeve and desiring connection, the narrator acknowledges the feeling of being isolated and unknown. The continuous reference to walking the road alone symbolizes a sense of personal responsibility and the inevitability of facing challenges solo. The mention of holding one's head up high in the face of adversity reflects the narrator's determination to maintain dignity despite being continuously brought down by others. The reference to Napoleon and Waterloo alludes to a historical defeat, suggesting that the narrator sees their current situation as a personal "Waterloo" where they have encountered their match and accepted their own limitations. Overall, the lyrics convey a poignant message about the struggle of facing hardships, embracing vulnerability, and ultimately finding strength in accepting defeat and solitude.