Better Off
Fool's Errand Lyrics


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I was born with a chip on my shoulder
You could see it in my eyes
You told me that it would get better when I'm older
But I know now that it was lies

Growing up I was always on the outside
Gave up at trying to fit in
I played the game of living up to expectations
You set it up so I cant win

So many years with a boot to my neck
I took the beatings like a man
Pressure and patience turned the pain into a diamond
Something you'll never understand

It was the spark that set my soul on fire
Push off a cliff that made me fly
Path of resistance is a hard road to travel
But at least I'll know I tried

I wont forgive and I wont let you soon forget
It may sound strange but I'll be always in your debt
You broke me down and built the man I am right now
I turned out for the worse, I'm better off somehow

I used to think I was alone in this world
These kind of thoughts can drive you mad
And there were times I thought of self-destruction
And how it didn't sound that bad

I'd snuff it out and then my problems are over
Its hard to hear but its the god-damned truth
Don't wanna go out giving you the satisfaction
Just to spite you I keep pushing through

And they'll tell you that you are worthless
I DON'T YOU BELIEVE IT
They'll make you think you have no purpose
I DON'T YOU BELIEVE IT
"Don't pay no mind, just live and die"
That was their answer when I QUESTIONED THEM WHY




It's all a con when you scratch the surface
DON'T YOU BELIEVE IT, NO!

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Better Off" by Fool's Errand delve into the themes of struggle, resilience, and overcoming adversity. The storyteller begins by reflecting on the challenges they faced from a young age, feeling burdened with a chip on their shoulder. Despite being told that things would improve with age, they express disillusionment and recognize the untruths in those assurances. This sets the tone for an introspective journey of self-discovery and growth.


The sense of alienation and not fitting in is a recurring theme throughout the narrative, as the singer recounts the struggles of trying to conform to expectations imposed upon them. They vividly describe the feeling of being on the outside, constantly striving to meet standards that seem unattainable. The imagery of a boot on their neck symbolizes the oppressive forces that weighed them down, yet they persevered and endured the hardships, ultimately transforming pain into resilience and strength.


The turning point in the story comes with a realization that the trials they faced were the catalyst for their personal growth. The adversity they encountered served as a spark that ignited their inner fire and propelled them forward. Despite facing a challenging path of resistance, the singer embraces the journey with determination and conviction, knowing that the struggle is a testament to their courage and tenacity. The assertion of trying, even when the odds are stacked against them, reflects a sense of defiance and self-empowerment.


The defiant tone continues into the final verses of the song, where the singer defiantly rejects the narratives of worthlessness and purposelessness imposed upon them by others. They urge the listener not to succumb to the negative messages and false beliefs perpetuated by society. The refusal to accept defeat and the insistence on questioning and challenging the status quo encapsulate the spirit of resilience and self-assertion. In the face of adversity and doubt, the singer asserts their agency and autonomy, choosing to defy expectations and find empowerment in their journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.




Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Peter Aponte

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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