The song "Really Hard" by James explores the struggles of staying true to oneself and maintaining authenticity in a world that often requires conformity and manipulation. The lyrics "To be loving when the knives are out, Takes much courage and a mind without doubt" convey the difficulty of maintaining kindness and compassion in the face of adversity or criticism. It takes strength and confidence to resist the temptation to retaliate or stoop to the level of those who are negative or hurtful. The lines "I'm just some robot, wind up the clockwork jerk, Trying to impress is the nature of my work" suggest that the narrator feels like a mere pawn in a larger game. They feel like a machine, programmed to seek approval and validation from others. The pressure to impress and conform to societal expectations is an unrelenting force in their life. The chorus reflects the challenges of staying true to oneself. It is hard to remain open and authentic when faced with the fear of judgment or rejection. The line "If it's true, it can't be spoken" implies that sometimes the truth is difficult to express or share openly. The lyrics criticize politicians or people in power who rely on manipulation and deceit to maintain control. The line "Rhetoricians think they're running this show, Words as power is all they'll ever know" highlights the belief that those in positions of authority often prioritize their use of words as a means of control rather than genuine communication or understanding. The bridge of the song encourages the listener to wake up from a state of obliviousness and take action. It urges a shift from passivity to engagement, as the narrator expresses a desperate desire to start anew and embrace a more authentic existence. Overall, "Really Hard" speaks to the complexities of navigating societal pressures, staying true to oneself, and questioning the manipulative tactics of those in power. The song calls for individual awakening and a rejection of conformity in favor of embracing truth and authenticity.
