Song Meaning

Diane Schuur's "We Can Only Try" isn't a battle cry, but a softly intoned mantra for navigating the uncertainties of existence. The song's meaning coalesces around acceptance and the quiet resilience found in simply *trying*. It acknowledges the inherent limitations of control, suggesting that our power lies not in dictating outcomes, but in bringing our best selves to each passing moment. The repetition of "We can only try" acts as both a comfort and a call to action, gently nudging the listener toward a more present and less anxious state of being. It's a perspective shift, trading the illusion of total control for the grounded reality of effort. The lyrics hint at a past filled with challenges ("We've climbed some hills along the way"), but these aren't presented as sources of bitterness. Instead, they're recast as the very foundation of strength and freedom. The song suggests that the struggle itself is transformative, shaping us into more resilient individuals. There’s a conscious decision to avoid dwelling on the “why” of happiness, whether abundant or scarce, further reinforcing the theme of acceptance. Questioning the fairness of life, the song implies, is a distraction from the more productive act of simply trying to make the most of what we have. This isn't about blind optimism, but rather a pragmatic approach to navigating the unpredictable terrain of life. Ultimately, "We Can Only Try" offers a gentle surrender to the flow of time and circumstance. The line "Whatever's meant to be will surely be" isn't fatalistic, but rather an affirmation of trust in the unfolding process. It’s about relinquishing the need to micromanage the future and finding peace in the present. The song’s lyrical simplicity is its strength, acting as a balm for the anxieties of modern life. Diane Schuur distills a complex philosophy into a digestible and deeply comforting message: focus on the effort, release the outcome, and trust the journey.