The song "Hard To Grow Up" by Joan Jett And The Blackhearts delves into the struggles and challenges of adulthood. The lyrics express feelings of confusion, loss, and the difficulty of accepting the responsibilities and changes that come with growing up. The opening lines reveal the narrator's state of mind, waking up feeling "crazy" and dealing with the loss of loved ones, particularly their mother. This loss is hard to comprehend and accept, leaving the narrator feeling helpless and unable to find solace or someone to blame for their pain. The chorus repeats the sentiment that it is hard to grow up, emphasizing the challenges faced in the transition from youth to adulthood. It acknowledges the inevitability of growing older and gaining new experiences but also points out the difficulty and confusion that come with it. The lyrics mention the desire to escape the pain by going out and partying, but this proves to be futile. The narrator realizes that dealing with their emotions and the changes they are experiencing is a process that cannot be avoided or resolved by temporary distractions. The song also acknowledges the narrator's previous carefree lifestyle and their need to adapt to a more responsible and structured way of living. Planning for the future becomes necessary, but they still yearn for the freedom and spontaneity of their past life. The repeated line "How do we end this story, my friend?" suggests a contemplation of how the journey of growing up and finding one's place in the world will unfold. It reflects the universal experience of navigating through life, uncertain of what the future holds and seeking answers or guidance from those around us. Overall, "Hard To Grow Up" captures the struggles and complexities of adulthood, emphasizing the difficulty of accepting change, loss, and the challenges that come with growing older.
