Introduction:
Something You Get Through: A Look Back at Willie Nelson’s Reflective Ballad
Released in 2018 on his album “Last Man Standing,” Willie Nelson’s “Something You Get Through” isn’t just another country tune. It’s a contemplative ballad that reflects on the inevitable hardships of life and the resilience of the human spirit.
While there isn’t extensive documented history readily available for this specific song, we can glean its meaning from Nelson’s long career and the themes explored in “Last Man Standing” itself. The album title hints at perseverance, a quality Nelson has embodied throughout his life. From his rise to fame in the 1960s to his status as an outlaw country legend, Nelson’s career has been marked by both success and setbacks.
The lyrics in “Something You Get Through” speak to this universal experience. Lines like “Life goes on and on / And when it’s gone / It lives in someone new” acknowledge the impermanence of life while offering a glimmer of hope. The core message, “It’s not somethin’ you get over / But it’s somethin’ you get through,” is a powerful testament to the human capacity to endure loss and keep moving forward.
This theme of resilience resonates throughout Nelson’s discography. Songs like “On the Road Again” celebrate the journey itself, even when the destination is uncertain. “Always on My Mind” grapples with the complexities of love and loss, but acknowledges the enduring power of memory.
“Something You Get Through” feels like a culmination of these themes. It’s a song seasoned by experience, offering solace and strength to anyone facing life’s inevitable challenges. Nelson’s signature raspy vocals and the melancholic melody create a poignant atmosphere, inviting listeners to contemplate their own experiences of loss and perseverance.
Whether you’re a longtime Willie Nelson fan or simply seeking a thoughtful country ballad, “Something You Get Through” is a song worth giving a listen. It’s a reminder that life may not always be easy, but with a bit of grit and determination, we can all learn to get through it.