"Shoulder The Weight" by Justin Courtney Pierre is a song about the experiences of growing older and dealing with the weight of life's responsibilities and challenges. The lyrics depict a sense of self-reflection and contemplation, as the protagonist navigates through the changes and burdens that come with adulthood. The song begins with a reflection on the transition into adulthood, symbolized by the metaphor of peeling off layers and feeling less as one gets older. The protagonist acknowledges that they must now bear the weight of their responsibilities and experiences. The lyrics then introduce a shift in the narrative, possibly referring to a specific event in the protagonist's life that changed their perspective. This change is described as cutting to the quick, which implies feeling deeply affected or hurt. The subsequent lines suggest that the event caused emotional distress, with the protagonist feeling like they are hemorrhaging emotions and struggling to cope. As the song continues, the protagonist grapples with the distance created by this event, acknowledging that it can cause people to become no-shows in their lives. They mention betting on a long shot, possibly referring to taking a chance on something with low odds of success. Despite these challenges, the protagonist takes responsibility for their own part in the situation and must now hold their share of the burden. They sober up from their emotions and try to make sense of their feelings, even though memories and years seem buried but are resurfacing. The lyrics convey a sense of restraint and biting their tongue, revealing a desire to withhold their emotions for a little longer. The chorus signifies the impact that this event has had on the protagonist. They express that they have been deeply shaken by the experience, feeling the weight of its repercussions. The mention of waiting for war and coming knocking at someone's door could suggest a confrontation or a desire to resolve the situation. Finally, the lyrics conclude with the realization that despite the challenges faced, the protagonist and the person they are addressing (possibly the one who caused the change) are ultimately the same. This realization signifies a shared understanding and empathy, suggesting that the protagonist has come to terms with their own personal growth and the impact of their experiences. Overall, "Shoulder The Weight" explores the themes of growing older, emotional challenges, and personal responsibility. The lyrics convey a sense of introspection, resilience, and a desire to navigate through life's difficulties.
