That's Life

Declan McKenna's song "That's Life" captures the chaotic and often unpredictable nature of life, using a party as a metaphor for the ups and downs we all experience. The song opens with a desire to party, setting a carefree tone that contrasts with the deeper themes explored in the lyrics. McKenna uses the phrase "That's life" to highlight the inevitability of life's challenges, suggesting that no matter how hard one tries, life has its own way of unfolding.

The lyrics delve into the pressures and expectations placed on individuals from a young age, as seen in the line "Johnny was primed to catch the worm." This reflects societal pressures to succeed and the harsh reality that life often becomes more difficult the harder one tries. The song critiques the tendency to blame youthful indiscretions on the "teenage mind," urging listeners to understand the complexities of growing up and the societal systems at play.

McKenna's use of culinary metaphors, such as "turn you into angel delight" and "mix it up and call it dessert," adds a playful yet poignant layer to the song. These lines suggest that life can be sweet and enjoyable, but also deceptive and fleeting. The recurring theme of "crash and burn" underscores the idea that life is a cycle of highs and lows, and that learning from these experiences is an essential part of the journey. Ultimately, "That's Life" is a reflection on the resilience required to navigate life's unpredictability, encouraging listeners to embrace the chaos and find joy in the moment, even when things don't go as planned.