The song "The Hard Way (Preliminary Hearing)" by Ph8 depicts the struggle of a person who has been controlled and manipulated by their father, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a lack of independence. The lyrics convey the desire to break free from the constraints imposed by the father and live life on their own terms. The protagonist reflects on the impact of the father's words and actions, and expresses a longing for autonomy and the opportunity to learn and grow from their own experiences. Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of resilience and determination to overcome the hardships and forge their own path in life.