The song "Soldier Boy" by Mason Jennings tells the story of a person who feels destined to be a soldier, carrying the weight of the world on their back. The lyrics depict someone who is born into a challenging environment, symbolized by being born on a railroad track. They feel like they are meant to be a soldier and navigate through life in a "graveyard town," where they may never truly find themselves unless they get lost first. The song also explores the theme of love and heartbreak. The protagonist falls in love with a girl who brings light into their dark world but ends up breaking their heart by getting involved with their best friend. This experience changes them, making their mind still function but not in the same way. The lyrics imply that this heartbreak further cements their identity as a soldier boy. Throughout the song, there is a repetition of the phrase "bang, ba-bang, ba-bang, ba-bang, ticky, ticky." This repetitive chorus could represent the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life, symbolizing the ups and downs that the soldier boy faces. The verses also touch upon the protagonist's family background, as their father died before turning nineteen, and their mother lived a fast-paced life. These references may highlight the cycle of struggle and hardship that the soldier boy feels trapped in. In conclusion, "Soldier Boy" portrays the journey of a person who feels destined for a life of war and struggle. However, it also touches upon themes of love, heartbreak, and the generational patterns that influence their existence.
