In My Fashion

Song Meaning

The narrator reflects on a life lived with intention, framing their existence as a deliberate "fashion." This isn't about superficial style, but a personal code of conduct and a lasting legacy. The opening lines establish a sense of self-awareness and a desire for remembrance, suggesting a life marked by both profound connection and inevitable heartbreak. The repetition of "in my fashion, in my way" underscores a commitment to individuality and personal truth throughout their experiences. There's a palpable sense of confronting mortality, with the narrator acknowledging encounters with "the reaper" during both highs and lows. This duality, experiencing life's extremes while maintaining a spiritual or superstitious practice of "prayers and touching wood," highlights a resilience forged in the crucible of existence. The imagery of bending down and touching the ground suggests humility and a deep connection to the earth, even amidst life's struggles. The lyrics then pivot to the role of fatherhood, presenting it as a defining aspect of their "fashion." The act of keeping "home fires burning from the ashes" is a powerful metaphor for perseverance and nurturing life even after significant loss or destruction. This suggests a life dedicated to rebuilding and sustaining, a testament to enduring love and commitment beyond personal hardship. The bridge introduces a sharp contrast, questioning external perceptions versus internal reality. The narrator challenges the listener to see if they appear as a naive figure, struggling with basic challenges like a "slide rule." This rhetorical question implies a deeper, perhaps more complex, understanding of life gained through experience, suggesting that outward appearances can be deceiving. The final query, "Is it any different now than it was then?" circles back to the theme of enduring personal truth, implying that despite the passage of time and external changes, the core of their "fashion" remains consistent.