The song "Battles" by Hudson Taylor addresses themes of struggle, perseverance, and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics depict a protagonist who starts off climbing towards success but is eventually pushed off by someone who has reached the top and defends their position. The protagonist finds a way to hide and protect themselves from the danger posed by this individual's words. They position themselves strategically and determine to play for what the antagonist is worth. The protagonist believes that the antagonist will eventually have nowhere left to hide. The song conveys a sense of determination and a willingness to confront challenges head-on. The protagonist states that they will lift up love and break the spirit of their adversary. They are ready to fight back and refuse to surrender, tearing down the antagonist's metaphorical flag. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist has previously been losing, but now the situation is at a stalemate or a draw. They are not afraid to shed blood in this battle and believe that they have the strength to face the truth. The protagonist acknowledges that the antagonist may have won previous battles but asserts their determination to take the fight to them. The song also touches on the idea of cynicism and questioning the motives of others. It poses the question of whether everyone is just cynics running away from their problems or if they are all just cynics that have come undone. This highlights the internal struggle of the protagonist as they navigate the challenges before them. In the second half of the song, the lyrics emphasize the tie between truth and honesty. The protagonist declares that they are not a liar and invites others to see the truth in their eyes. They act on their words and the things they have heard, demonstrating their integrity and authenticity. Overall, "Battles" tells a story of resilience, standing up to adversity, and refusing to back down. It encourages listeners to confront their challenges head-on and remain true to themselves despite the cynicism and obstacles that may come their way.
