When Fear Meets Courage: A Soul's Unyielding March | Mind Over Matter | Young the Giant


"Mind Over Matter" by Young the Giant offers a nuanced exploration of the enduring power of human will through its deeply lyrical content. At first listen, it's an infectious alt-rock song with irresistible sonics, but under the surface, it depicts a fascinating juxtaposition of fear, love, and resilience.
Sometimes, life presents us with overwhelming challenges, causing us to retreat into ourselves or become paralyzed by fear. This is perfectly captured in the opening lines of the song, "Mind over matter/ Does it matter to any of us?/ Don't change the subject/ I'm heavy on your love". These lines create a sense of conflict between the physical reality and the mind's powers.
The phrase "Mind Over Matter" historically refers to the use of willpower to overcome physical challenges. In the song, it reflects the struggle and triumph over personal fears and challenges. In this regard, the lyrics "Does it matter to any of us?" reveals the skepticism around whether such a concept truly holds any water in real life.
The second verse of the song dives deeper into the dilemmas of the human heart. The lyrics, "When the night is over/ And the wall is fallen to the floor/ You scared I kinda love it/ There's nobody nobody knows" portray the quintessential conflict of inner fear and secret love, possibly in a romantic relationship, which is riddled with hurdles and vulnerabilities.
Emanating from these lyrics is a strong resonance of fear, yet the reassurance of love acting as a guiding light in nerve-wracking journeys. The song presents the essence of "mind over matter" as a beacon of hope, the belief that we possess the ability to surmount and thrive amid life's adversities.
This theme sharply comes to a point in the chorus - "I'm heavy on your love/ I missed that train/ New York City, it rains". These lines may depict the love interest living in New York City, with the missed train symbolizing a lost opportunity. The expressive use of imagery subtly highlights the notion of resilience, which is instrumental in combating life's disappointments. It emphasizes the necessity of picking oneself up and moving forward, in spite of the circumstances.
In conclusion, "Mind Over Matter" by Young the Giant stands not just as a catchy, euphonious track but as an empowering anthem of the human spirit. Its lyrics palpably echo the struggles, fears, and victories that form the intricate tapestry of our existence. The song beautifully encapsulates the power of the mind in overcoming tangible hardships and our ability to find love, even in the heart of despair. The spirit of "Mind Over Matter" challenges us to look beyond surface difficulties, to tap into our innate strength, and to continue our life's journey, even when the odds seem stacked against us.
