Song Meaning
Dessa's "Press On" operates as both a personal mantra and a broader commentary on navigating a world riddled with disillusionment. The intro, a collaboration with Sims, immediately establishes this theme, charting a course from inspiration ("the spark") to manifestation ("the light"), and from casual indulgence ("the bar") to disciplined action ("the bike"). The repetition of "Gotta press on" serves as a relentless reminder of the effort required to move forward, a sentiment that resonates deeply in an era defined by both unprecedented opportunity and overwhelming obstacles. The phrase "harvest it right" suggests a careful, ethical approach to reaping the rewards of one's labor, hinting at the moral complexities that underpin personal ambition. The juxtaposition of "heart to the spike" and "guard to the sight" could represent the necessary hardening of oneself to be able to see the truth, rather than be taken advantage of. It is a cycle of pain and the need to protect oneself from that pain, to move forward.
The first verse dives into the practicalities of this struggle. Dessa touches on themes of accessibility and commerce (“Target’s cheap, Speech is free, And for the rest, there’s Visa”), highlighting the commodification of values and the ever-present lure of consumerism. The lines "You can eat your words, Bite your tongue, But we don't take no evils" suggest a refusal to compromise one's principles, even when faced with difficult choices. This is followed by a cynical observation about the state of affairs: "Seems everybody's on the take." This line feels like a lament about the state of society, where ethical compromises are rampant.
Ultimately, "Press On," as a song meaning, isn't just about blind perseverance; it's about conscious navigation. Dessa's introspective lyrics acknowledge the temptation to retreat from the world's harsh realities, as she states, "If I can't make it better, Then I'd like to feel it less." Yet, embedded within this vulnerability is a steely resolve to keep moving forward, to “press on” despite the odds. The phrase "if success is bed rest then I'm dressed for it" feels sarcastic, as if she is saying the only way to succeed is to do nothing, but she will fight and do everything. The song serves as an anthem for those who refuse to succumb to cynicism, who choose instead to confront the world's complexities with a blend of resilience and critical awareness. The song urges listeners to maintain momentum in the face of adversity.
