Song meaning of Alive [July 23, 2006] by Pearl Jam

"Alive" by Pearl Jam is a powerful and emotionally charged song that delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and resilience. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who discovers a shocking truth about his paternity, as his mother reveals that the man he thought was his father was not biologically related to him. This revelation is a turning point in the protagonist's life, as he grapples with the realization that his real father had passed away without him ever knowing.

The chorus of the song, with the repeated lines "Hey, I, oh, I'm still alive," serves as a defiant declaration of survival and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the turmoil and confusion caused by the revelation, the protagonist finds strength in the fact that he is still standing and still alive. This sentiment is further emphasized in the lines, "Is something wrong?" she said / Of course there is / "You're still alive," she said, highlighting the internal struggle of questioning one's worthiness and existence.

The repeated refrain of "I'm still alive" throughout the song conveys a sense of defiance and determination to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward. The protagonist's introspective questioning of whether he deserves to be alive adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as he grapples with his sense of self-worth and purpose. The raw emotion and vulnerability in the lyrics, coupled with Eddie Vedder's impassioned vocals, make "Alive" a poignant and cathartic anthem of survival and resilience.