When Fragile Hope Meets the Storm | The Trick Is To Keep Breathing | Garbage

The song "The Trick is to Keep Breathing" by Garbage is a poignant and introspective track that explores themes of resilience, perseverance, and the human condition. Written by lead vocalist Shirley Manson and guitarist Butch Vig, the song was released in 2001 as part of the album "Beautiful Garbage".

At its core, "The Trick is to Keep Breathing" is a song about survival. The lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling to come to terms with their own mortality, acknowledging that life can be brutal and unforgiving. Manson's powerful vocals deliver a message of hope and encouragement, urging the listener to hold on to what they have, no matter how fragile it may seem.

The song's title itself is a nod to this idea of perseverance - the trick, as Vig has said in interviews, is not to give up when things get tough. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and metaphors, with Manson drawing comparisons between her own struggles and those of nature - "I'm just a leaf on a windy day" she sings at one point.

Despite its darker themes, "The Trick is to Keep Breathing" has a certain beauty to it, with Vig's atmospheric guitar work and the band's driving rhythm section creating a sense of tension and release. The song builds towards a soaring chorus, with Manson's voice rising above the instrumentation like a beacon of hope.

Ultimately, "The Trick is to Keep Breathing" is a song about finding the strength to carry on, even in the face of adversity. It's a message that resonates deeply with listeners, and one that has helped make it a fan favorite over the years.