The Hidden Message of “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” by Styx
The Power of Music
Music has the power to move us, to inspire us, and to change the way we think. It can make us laugh, make us cry, and make us feel emotions we never knew existed. Each song has its own story to tell, and it’s up to us to listen and decode its hidden message.
One song that has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with audiences is “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” by Styx. Initially released in 1977, the song has been covered by various artists and continues to be a popular classic rock tune. However, beyond the catchy tune and memorable lyrics lies a deeper message about coming of age, self-discovery, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world.
The Story Behind the Lyrics
At its core, “Fooling Yourself” is about the struggle of young adults to come to terms with their place in life. The song was written by Tommy Shaw, the guitarist and vocalist for the band. Shaw was just 24 years old when he penned the lyrics, and the song reflects the confusion and frustration he felt as a young man coming of age in the 1970s.
The song opens with the lines, “You see the world through your cynical eyes / You’re a troubled young man I can tell / You’ve got it all in the palm of your hand / But your hand’s wet with sweat and your head needs a rest.” These lyrics speak to the feelings of uncertainty and doubt that many young people experience as they try to navigate the complexities of the world.
As the song continues, Shaw encourages listeners to take control of their lives and not to succumb to the pressures and limitations of society. He sings, “You’re fooling yourself if you don’t believe it / You’re kidding yourself if you don’t believe it / Get up, get back on your feet / You’re the one who’s really made to beat.” These lyrics serve as a rallying cry for young people, encouraging them to overcome the obstacles in their path and to strive for greatness.
The Significance of the Angry Young Man
The term “angry young man” was first used in the 1950s to describe a group of British playwrights and novelists who wrote about the struggles of working-class youth in post-World War II Britain. The term has since been expanded to include any young person who feels alienated from society and frustrated with the limitations of their circumstances.
Shaw’s use of the term in the song reflects the frustration and sense of injustice many young people feel as they struggle to find their place in the world. The chorus of the song encapsulates this sentiment perfectly, with the lyrics: “You’re fooling yourself if you don’t believe it / You’re kidding yourself if you don’t believe it / Why must you be such an angry young man / When your future looks quite bright to me.”
The Message of Empowerment
Despite the frustration and anger that is at the heart of the song, “Fooling Yourself” ultimately delivers a message of empowerment. The lyrics encourage listeners to take control of their lives and to believe in their own potential. This message is particularly important for young people who may feel powerless and overwhelmed by the challenges of growing up.
The song also speaks to the importance of self-discovery and finding one’s own path in life. As Shaw sings, “I know it seems hard sometimes but remember one thing / Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” These lyrics remind us that even when things seem like they will never get better, there is always hope for a brighter future.
The Legacy of a Classic
Nearly 45 years after its initial release, “Fooling Yourself” continues to be a beloved classic rock song with a timeless message. The song remains popular on classic rock radio stations, and its message of empowerment and self-discovery resonates with audiences of all ages.
In a world where young people are often told that they cannot achieve their dreams, “Fooling Yourself” is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and determination. It encourages young people to believe in themselves and to not let the limitations of society hold them back.
The Meaning Behind the Music
At its heart, “Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)” by Styx is a song about the struggles of growing up, finding your place in the world, and learning to believe in yourself. The lyrics offer a message of hope and encouragement, encouraging listeners to take control of their lives and to strive for greatness.
As we continue to navigate the challenges of life, it is important to remember that we are not alone in our struggles. Music has the power to connect us, to inspire us, and to remind us of our greatness. And in the case of “Fooling Yourself,” it reminds us that even when things seem tough, anything is possible if we believe in ourselves.
