Aspera

Song Meaning

Erin McKeown's "Aspera" isn't just a song; it's a visceral assertion of resilience. The Latin refrain, "Aspera! Per aspera! Per ardua! Ad astra!" (Through hardship to the stars), anchors the track, serving as both a mantra and a declaration of intent. McKeown doesn’t shy away from the initial chaos – the opening lines paint a picture of someone "in shambles," "blown to bits by our troubles." This isn't a Pollyannaish climb; it's a hard-won ascent from the depths. The "brambles," "stumblings," and "struggles" are not glossed over but rather acknowledged as integral parts of the journey. The lyrics delve into the psychological terrain of perseverance. Phrases like "forced march" and "parched in denial" suggest a battle against both external forces and internal resistance. The "struggle of faith and of fire" hints at a refining process, where beliefs are tested and forged anew. McKeown touches upon the idea of incremental progress amidst adversity: "Walking we are caught by tiny hooks that hold our hope / Our skin may be scratched but nothing holds us back." This speaks to the cumulative effect of small victories, the persistent clinging to hope even when wounded. It's a recognition that growth isn't linear; it's often a series of stumbles forward, each leaving its mark. Ultimately, "Aspera" lands as an anthem of self-affirmation. The repeated assertion, "I will be brave," isn't a passive wish but an active choice. The line "My body may change / But my spirit will stay" suggests an acceptance of vulnerability and the impermanence of the physical form, while simultaneously affirming the enduring strength of the spirit. McKeown reframes hardship not as an end but as a crucible. The final lines, "Thorns! Over thorns! Through this trouble, we are born!" drive home the central theme: that true growth and transformation emerge from navigating the most challenging landscapes. The song meaning resonates with anyone who's faced adversity and chosen to keep moving towards their own stars.