"Gave It A Try" by Joan Armatrading is a song about the struggle to fit into society's expectations and the desire to break free and find one's own path. The lyrics reflect on the protagonist's attempts to conform and please their family, particularly their mother, father, and brothers. They have tried to live according to their family's wishes and expectations, but it has only brought them sadness and tears. The two weeks mentioned in the song could symbolize a specific period of time when the protagonist made a concentrated effort to conform and find their place in society. During this time, they found a job and tried to show consideration for their relationships, perhaps indicating that they tried to be responsible and fulfill societal roles. However, despite their best efforts, the protagonist still feels unhappy and unfulfilled. They realize that living according to the expectations of others, especially their family, has not brought them happiness or a sense of purpose. So, they decide to take a different path and do things their own way. The repeated mention of trying and crying to their mother, father, and brothers highlights the emotional toll this struggle has taken on the protagonist. They have attempted to meet their family's expectations but have experienced disappointment and sorrow along the way. In the end, the protagonist resolves to break free from societal and familial expectations and live life on their own terms. They assert that they will now do things their own way, indicating a desire for self-empowerment and the courage to pursue their own dreams and goals. Overall, "Gave It A Try" is a song about the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires. It speaks to the struggle of finding one's identity and the bravery needed to break free from the expectations of others and pursue individual happiness.
