Still Get By
The Long Ryders Lyrics

The lyrics of The Long Ryders's song "Still Get By" depict a young girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. The singer describes her as "just a little girl," implying that she is still young and naive. Despite her youth, she is not considered "cool" or popular, coming right out of school. The singer expresses skepticism about the girl's claims, stating that they will not believe her if she says something is true. It seems that the girl is trying to fit in with a certain crowd, as she is often seen going up and down with them.

The next lines introduce a twist in the story. It appears that the girl is in a difficult situation financially, as she relies on clothes from the lost and found. This suggests that she is unable to afford new clothes and has to rely on discarded items. The singer expresses a lack of fear about being left alone with her, implying that their relationship is not based on material possessions but on something deeper. However, the singer also feels trapped in this relationship, comparing themselves to a puppet on a string. They feel as if they might as well be dead because of the limitations and constraints they experience.

The chorus, repeated multiple times, conveys a sense of hope and resilience. The singer expresses a desire to still be able to get by despite the challenges they face. This can be interpreted as a metaphorical statement about overcoming obstacles and finding a way to survive, both individually and in their relationship. By repeating the phrase "I hope I can still get by" multiple times, the song emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Overall, "Still Get By" portrays a story of a young girl who is struggling to find her place in society and a narrator who feels trapped in their relationship. It explores themes of financial insecurity, the pressure to fit in, and the longing for personal freedom and independence.