Song Meaning

The narrator's philosophy is simple: accept life's inevitable challenges with a relaxed, almost passive, demeanor. The repeated phrase "takin' it as it comes" establishes a core sentiment of resignation and a desire to avoid struggle. This isn't about fighting the current, but about floating along, finding solace in simple pleasures like "gettin' high and drinking beer." It's a stance against the pressure to constantly strive and control, suggesting that life's difficulties are universal, as the lyrics state, "it comes to everyone." The lyrics present a clear tension between external pressures and the narrator's chosen response. The opening verse highlights the futility of trying to navigate impossible choices, where "you're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't." This sense of being trapped leads to a realization that past efforts were misplaced, as the narrator admits, "I was too busy chasin' life, 'stead of livin' mine." The song suggests a shift from active pursuit to passive acceptance as a way to reclaim one's present. A particularly striking element is the cowboy imagery in the second verse, which seems to serve as a metaphor for societal expectations of rugged individualism and control. The narrator contrasts this with the chaotic reality of such pursuits, describing them as "riding deranged" and dependent on "luck and the buck and the draw." This imagery underscores the idea that even the most seemingly controlled paths are ultimately subject to chance, reinforcing the narrator's choice to relinquish that illusion of control and simply "take it as it comes." Ultimately, the song's effectiveness lies in its unpretentious honesty and its embrace of a laid-back approach to life's complexities. By grounding the philosophy in relatable, simple actions like drinking beer and getting high, the narrator offers a comforting perspective that prioritizes present peace over future anxieties. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most profound wisdom is found in letting go.