Struggle

Song Meaning

The lyrics open with a sense of impending relief, as "Thorns an' prickle easin' away" and "Frustration - tiredness too" begin to dissipate. There's a strong anticipation that the "table will turn," signaling a shift from past difficulties to a more promising future. The immediate emotional texture is one of weary hope giving way to determined optimism. Central to these lyrics is the acknowledgment that "ev'rything you do in life there always been a struggle." This isn't a complaint but a foundational truth, setting up the core conflict between life's inherent challenges and an unwavering commitment to move forward. The declaration "once you hit the road there ain't no turnin' back" reinforces this resolve, suggesting a point of no return in the pursuit of overcoming. The craft here leans heavily on repetition and spiritual grounding. The repeated phrase "Jah is our guiding star so we shall overcome" acts as a powerful, mantra-like affirmation, transforming personal struggle into a collective, divinely supported victory. This spiritual reliance culminates in a direct allusion to Psalm 91, where the narrator declares they "shall not be afraid of terror by night" or "the arrow flyeth by day," invoking ancient protection against all forms of harm. These lyrics are effective because they blend raw honesty about life's difficulties with an unshakeable faith. By acknowledging the constant "struggle" while simultaneously asserting spiritual protection and an inability to turn back, the song creates a compelling narrative of resilience. The specific imagery of thorns and arrows, contrasted with the guiding star, paints a vivid picture of enduring hardship through spiritual strength, resonating with anyone facing their own battles.