"So Long" by Everlast is a song that delves into the themes of pain, despair, and revenge. The lyrics depict a young boy, referred to as "shorty," who is bullied and mistreated by his classmates. Feeling helpless and pushed to the edge, shorty seeks solace in his father's teachings of hunting and starts contemplating taking revenge on those who have hurt him. The story begins with shorty's father buying him a gun and teaching him how to use it. As the bullying continues, shorty finds comfort in the book "Catcher in the Rye," which portrays rebellion and isolation. Feeling a sense of freedom, he decides to take matters into his own hands. The chorus reflects shorty's ominous thoughts as he contemplates his own death and the retribution he seeks for his suffering. He questions how a young life like his could go so wrong and feels the weight of his grievances. The second verse explores shorty's disturbed state of mind. He implies that people should fear him but does not want to be touched, indicating his desire to protect himself and seeking respect. He expresses his frustration with others who have taken advantage of him and overshadowed his potential. The bridge section emphasizes the turmoil and losses shorty has experienced. It mentions his mistakes and the cycle of life, suggesting that he doesn't know where his actions will lead him but is aware of the consequences he has faced and brought upon others. The song ends with a plea to his mother, explaining that she is not to blame for his actions and the path he has chosen. The lyrics convey the pain he feels and the desire to make those who have hurt him pay. Overall, "So Long" delves into the darkness and emotional struggles of a young boy who is pushed to the brink of seeking revenge due to a lifetime of mistreatment and despair.
