Song analysis

Livin' on a prayer is an incredibly well-known classic rock, or more specifically arena rock song, released by Bon Jovi in 1986. The overall message of the song is delivered by the lyrics through the story of a couple trying to make a life for themselves while not having very much money to do so with. Many of the lyrics in this song hold messages of hope and perseverance to push through hard times in life.

Influenced by the singer's romantic life, the tale of Tommy and Gina tells of their struggle to keep holding onto hope when life seems too much to handle. The first verse speak about both of their individual struggles in earning sufficient money for them to build a life together - 'Union's been on strike / he's down on his luck, its tough', 'Gina works the diner all day / she brings home her pay for love'. As we get to the end second verse, the lines continue to tell of their struggles, but now they are together and Tommy is comforting Gina rather than being separated and left to their own toils. This change could show that there is still hope for the future - 'When she cries in the night, Tommy whispers "Baby, it's ok, someday". This line also mentions that Gina is crying, which helps the listener to really empathise with the stress that her life situation is putting her under. Interestingly, this is the only line in all the verses where the melody is changed. It goes higher than any sections in the verses which could be to show that they will rise to and overcome their challenges and further emphasises the message of hope.

The bridge of the song further deepens our understanding of the couple's situation and holds an important message, not just for Tommy and Gina, but to all who listen to the song. It tells us to do our best to make do with what we have, no matter how much or how little that may be, and that in the end, it doesn't really matter if we make it or not, but rather that as long as we all have each others' backs and support one another, we will be alright. The chorus, the main part of the song, conveys a message of perseverance with an optimistic 'glass half full' attitude - 'We're half way there'. The line - 'Livin' on a prayer' - emphasises how little the couple have and yet continue to fight on through their hardships. Furthermore, - 'Take my hand, we'll make it I swear' - expands on the bridge's idea of unity and supporting one another through hard times.