About the song
“Letter To Me” is a song by American country singer Brad Paisley, released in 2007 as part of his album “5th Gear”. It’s a reflective song written from the perspective of someone looking back on their teenage years.
Themes in “Letter To Me”
The main theme of the song is hindsight advice. The narrator wishes he could go back in time and give his 17-year-old self some words of wisdom. Here are some specific themes explored in the song:
- Teenage Struggles: The song acknowledges the challenges of being a teenager, including feeling lost, pressured by parents, and heartbreak.
- Importance of Perseverance: Despite the difficulties, the narrator emphasizes that things will get better and encourages his younger self to keep going.
- Value of Education: The song highlights the importance of taking advantage of educational opportunities, even if they seem boring at the time.
- Appreciation for Good People: The narrator expresses gratitude for teachers like Miss Brinkman who saw his potential and helped him grow.
- Living in the Moment: There’s a subtle reminder to appreciate the present moment, even though the future might seem uncertain.
Overall, “Letter To Me” is a nostalgic and heartwarming song about lessons learned and the importance of perspective.
Video
Lyrics
If I could write a letter to meAnd send it back in time to myself at 17First I’d prove it’s me by saying“Look under your bedThere’s a Skoal can and a PlayboyNo one else would know you hid”
And then I’d say I know it’s toughWhen you break up after seven monthsAnd, yeah, I know you really liked herAnd it just don’t seem fairBut all I can say is pain like that is fast and it’s rare
And, oh, you got so much going for you, going rightBut I know at 17 it’s hard to see past Friday nightShe wasn’t right for you and still you feel like there’s a knifeSticking out of your back and you’re wondering if you’ll survive itYou’ll make it through this and you’ll seeYou’re still around to write this letter to me
At the stop sign at Tomlinson and 8thI always stop completely, don’t just tap your brakesAnd when you get a date with BridgetMake sure the tank is fullOn second thought, forget itThat one turns out kinda cool
Each and every time you have a fightJust assume you’re wrong and dad is rightAnd you should really thank Ms. BrinkmanShe spends so much extra timeIt’s like she sees a diamond underneathAnd she’s polishing you ’til you shine
Oh, you got so much going for ya, going rightBut I know, at 17 it’s hard to see past Friday nightTonight’s the bonfire rally but you’re staying home insteadBecause if you fail algebra, mom and dad’ll kill you deadBut trust me, you’ll squeak by and get a CAnd you’re still around to write this letter to me
You’ve got so much up aheadYou’ll make new friendsYou should see your kids and wifeAnd I’ll end by saying have no fearThese are nowhere near the best years of your lifeI guess I’ll see you in the mirror when you’re a grown manP.S. go hug Aunt Rita every chance you can
And oh, you got so much going for you going rightBut I know, at 17 it’s hard to see past Friday nightI wish you’d study Spanish, I wish you’d take a typing classI wish you wouldn’t worry and let it beHey, I’d say have a little faith and you’ll see
If I could write a letter to meTo me