Horse Head：Meaning of Ready Or Not Songmeaning

The song "Ready or Not" by Horse Head tells the story of someone going through a difficult and confusing time in their life. The lyrics describe a dream where the protagonist is walking through familiar places, but feels a sense of emptiness and loss. They look down to see nothing beneath their feet and as they fall, they cling onto a strand of someone's hair, possibly symbolizing holding onto a past relationship or connection. Despite the unfairness of the situation, they accept it. The song then transitions to the protagonist expressing their struggles in reality. They can't seem to think clearly and turn to drinking, hoping to numb their thoughts. The feeling of being lost is compared to a sinking ship, and they find solace in the crashing waves of the sea. They try to keep swimming even when they can't breathe, suggesting their determination to keep going despite the challenges. The chorus highlights the changing dynamics of the protagonist's social circle. Their old friends were jocks, who might have represented a more conventional or mainstream lifestyle, while their new friends take drugs but offer them the support and love they need. This implies a shift in priorities and finding solace in a different kind of community. Despite feeling lost, the protagonist finds comfort in this newfound group. Overall, "Ready or Not" is a reflective and introspective song about navigating through difficult times and finding support where it's least expected. It portrays the sense of confusion, longing, and desire for stability, while acknowledging the resilience to keep pushing forward.