Hard Sun

Eddie Vedder's 'Hard Sun' is a song that encapsulates the struggle and resilience of human experience against the backdrop of nature's overwhelming power. The lyrics suggest a relationship between the narrator and a significant other, where the presence of this person makes the narrator a 'better man.' The song speaks to the idea of seeking solace and redemption in a relationship, only to realize that the comfort it provides is both necessary and inescapable.

The recurring image of the 'big hard sun' serves as a metaphor for the harsh realities of life. It's a force that beats down on 'big people,' which could be interpreted as those who carry significant burdens or responsibilities. This natural element is indifferent to human struggles, symbolizing the challenges everyone faces in the 'big hard world.' The song's chorus emphasizes the relentless nature of life's trials, suggesting that despite our efforts to rise above them, we are all subject to the same universal forces.

Vedder's lyrics also touch on themes of humility and the human tendency to seek control. The narrator builds an 'ivory tower' and digs an 'early grave' in attempts to escape or outsmart life's inevitable hardships. However, these efforts are met with the realization that surrendering to the flow of life, represented by the significant other's acceptance and comfort, is where true freedom lies. The song ultimately conveys a message of embracing life's challenges, finding strength in relationships, and accepting the natural order of the world.