Holes

Passenger's song 'Holes' is a poignant reflection on the struggles and losses that people face throughout their lives. The lyrics tell stories of individuals who have experienced significant hardships, yet they continue to persevere. The recurring theme of 'holes' symbolizes the voids left by these challenges, whether it's the loss of possessions, a loved one, or broken promises.

The first verse introduces a man who has lost everything in a fire, emphasizing that when one has nothing left to lose, they are free from the fear of losing. The second verse shifts to a woman abandoned by her husband, left to fend for herself and her children. The 'holes' in her heart and life represent the emotional and physical absence of her partner. Despite these adversities, the chorus reinforces the message that life goes on and that these 'holes' do not define the entirety of one's existence.

The song's bridge, 'Well sometimes you can't change and you can't choose, And sometimes it seems you gain less than you lose,' speaks to the inevitability of suffering and the lack of control we often have over our circumstances. However, the repetition of 'we’ve got holes, we’ve got holes but we carry on' serves as a powerful mantra of resilience and hope. It's a reminder that despite the imperfections and voids we all carry, we continue to move forward. Passenger's folk-rock style, characterized by its storytelling and emotional depth, effectively conveys this message of endurance and the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt.