Big Deal

Song Meaning

The lyrics grapple with the paralyzing fear of judgment and failure. The narrator opens by listing anxieties about external perception – "What will people think? What will people say?" – and the potential negative outcomes, like hitting a wall or losing it all. This initial vulnerability sets a tense stage, highlighting the internal struggle before any action is taken. The central tension emerges as a battle between succumbing to fear and embracing risk. The narrator contrasts the idea of "lock[ing] the doors" and letting fears "bury me alive" with the bold choice to "take the cup of life and drink it up." This represents a pivotal decision point, moving from passive avoidance to active engagement with life's uncertainties. The repeated phrase "Big deal, so what?" acts as a defiant mantra against these anxieties. It’s a conscious effort to reframe potential setbacks, suggesting that failure isn't catastrophic but rather a common experience. The subsequent lines, "At least I'll know I tried" and "I'll get it right someday," reinforce this attitude, shifting the focus from a perfect outcome to the value of the attempt itself. This lyrical approach effectively captures the internal monologue of someone pushing past self-doubt. By personifying fear and then systematically dismantling its power with the recurring "Big deal," the song offers a relatable anthem for anyone facing the daunting prospect of stepping outside their comfort zone. The final, resolute "I will take the cup of life and drink it up" solidifies the shift from apprehension to determined action.