Meaning of What Does It Take (To Be a Man) by DevilDriver

The Quest for Masculinity: Unpacking the Meaning of "What Does It Take (To Be a Man)"

As I reflect on the lyrics of DevilDriver’s "What Does It Take (To Be a Man)", I am struck by the song’s exploration of the complexities of masculinity. The song’s themes of determination, hard work, loyalty, and protection resonate deeply with me, and I believe they will with many others. In this article, I will delve into the meaning behind these lyrics, sharing my own experiences and insights along the way.

The Weight of Expectations

The song begins by acknowledging the challenges and difficulties that men face in their daily lives. "It’s a heavy burden to carry", the narrator sings, highlighting the weight of responsibility that often rests on men’s shoulders. This line struck a chord with me, as I have often felt the pressure to provide for my family and prove myself as a man. The song’s emphasis on perseverance and fulfilling responsibilities, even when the odds seem insurmountable, is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this struggle.

The Importance of Family

The narrator’s strong attachment to his family is a recurring theme throughout the song. "I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they’re safe", he declares, emphasizing the importance of protecting and providing for those we love. This sentiment is deeply personal for me, as I have always put my family first. The song’s message is clear: being a man is not just about individual success, but about being a rock for those who depend on us.

The Value of Personal Integrity

The lyrics also emphasize the value of personal integrity and honor. "All a man’s got is his word and to keep himself free", the narrator sings, suggesting that a man’s reputation is built on his reliability and trustworthiness. This line resonates with me, as I believe that integrity is the foundation of any strong relationship. The song’s warning against crossing boundaries and interfering with others’ families is a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting others’ space and boundaries.

Lessons from Our Upbringing

The second verse reflects on the narrator’s upbringing and the lessons passed down by his parents. "My dad worked hard to provide for us, my mom sacrificed", he sings, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication. These experiences have shaped his understanding of what it means to be a man and have instilled in him a resolute commitment to his own path. I too have been shaped by my upbringing, and I believe that the values my parents instilled in me have been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today.

A Call to Action

The song concludes with the repeated question "What does it take to be a man?", which serves as a challenge and a call to action. This question prompts the listener to reflect on their own understanding of masculinity and to consider what qualities they believe are essential to being a man. By reinforcing the idea of hard work and determination as essential qualities, the song encourages individuals to embody a strong, disciplined, and responsible version of masculinity.

Conclusion

In "What Does It Take (To Be a Man)", DevilDriver has created a powerful anthem that explores the complexities of masculinity. Through its themes of determination, hard work, loyalty, and protection, the song encourages listeners to reflect on their own understanding of what it means to be a man. As I look back on my own experiences with this song, I am reminded of the importance of living with integrity, being a rock for those who depend on us, and embodying a strong, disciplined, and responsible version of masculinity.

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