The song "Tryin' To Matter" by Harry Connick, Jr. is about the narrator's longing to find love and meaning in his life. The lyrics depict a person named Lucy who assures the narrator that they will find what they are looking for in a hotel. However, whenever the narrator sees Lucy, their thoughts become clouded, indicating confusion in their pursuit of love. The song talks about witnessing many people being hurt and disillusioned by love, which has made the narrator hesitant to fully embrace it. Despite this, the narrator still takes a chance at finding someone who matters to them. They express the desire to find someone who dislikes them when they are late coming home occasionally, suggesting that they want someone who cares enough to be concerned about their absence. The lyrics reveal the narrator's vulnerability and yearning for connection. They mention the wish to have a certain person in their life, someone who could be significant to them. The narrator believes that having that person would give their life meaning and purpose. Towards the end of the song, the lyrics express the notion that without someone to love and be loved by, the narrator feels empty, as if they have nothing. They don't want to leave this world without having experienced deep connections and relationships. Overall, "Tryin' To Matter" explores the themes of love, longing, and the importance of human connection.
