"Holding Out" is a song by the band Eleventyseven. The lyrics depict the struggles and frustrations commonly experienced by many young adults, particularly millennials, who feel stuck in a monotonous routine, forced to prioritize mundane responsibilities over pursuing their dreams and passions. The song highlights the theme of feeling trapped and unfulfilled within society's expectations and the pressure to conform. The lyrics emphasize the feeling of treading water and being under constant stress, paralleling the feelings of being chained to a proverbial treadmill. The mention of Bowie could refer to the late musician David Bowie's iconic song "Under Pressure," further emphasizing the sense of overwhelming pressure felt by the narrator. The verses touch on various issues faced by millennials, such as a lack of job prospects despite having a college degree and the constant questioning by others about major life milestones like having children. The lyrics express the frustration of feeling unseen and undervalued despite efforts to achieve success. The chorus reveals a desire for something more meaningful and fulfilling than just surviving paycheck to paycheck and living for the weekend. The narrator yearns for a break from the repetitive cycle and dreams of a brighter future. However, the song acknowledges the difficulties and fears associated with pursuing these dreams, symbolized by the mention of terrorists and stress. In essence, "Holding Out" reflects the internal struggle of many young adults who feel the weight of societal expectations and are torn between chasing their dreams and conforming to the realities of the present. It captures the frustration, hopes, and aspirations of a generation seeking to break free from the confines of the millennial treadmill.
