Chapter 1: Understanding Life's Challenges

While it might seem pessimistic, I find merit in the notion that life resembles a losing game. Let me elaborate on this perspective.

I must confess that I tend to have a negative outlook. This means that the unfavorable aspects of situations tend to impact me more profoundly than the positive ones. So, what does it signify when we say life is a losing game?

A more optimistic person might counter that life is fundamentally about winning, suggesting that it’s all a matter of perspective. While I partially agree with this optimistic view, my stance is rooted in the belief that existence often feels burdensome.

If you strive to succeed in life—whether through achievements, personal development, or material gains—then, in a sense, you have already encountered loss. Consider the numerous sacrifices required to pursue a dream. For instance, my passion for music drives me to aim for stardom, complete with accolades and sold-out concerts. However, chasing this aspiration demands sacrifices—actions I may not want to undertake but feel compelled to because of my ambitions. Conversely, opting out of this pursuit also carries its own repercussions. Ultimately, every choice comes with its costs. In essence, life can feel like a losing game because it inherently involves unavoidable pain.

This highlights the significance of recognizing that “life is a losing game” may hold more truth than its more optimistic counterparts. Our instinct is to shy away from pain, which often leads us to deny its existence. But what occurs when we refuse to confront reality or seek the unattainable? We suffer.

The core message behind this phrase serves as a reminder that life isn't always filled with joy. For instance, during moments of sadness, when I ponder why certain events occur and long for a perfect existence, I recall the sentiment that “life is a losing game.” Therefore, the true way to triumph is by acknowledging that you’ve already faced loss. Accepting this loss means recognizing that pain is an integral part of life; you must learn to endure it.

This theme resonates so profoundly with me that I composed a song about it. The chorus of my song "Losing Game" encapsulates this feeling beautifully:

A losing game

Got no choice, I got to play

A losing game

It’s my heart against my head

A losing game

Tried my best to run away

A losing game

Got no choice, I got to play

If you’d like to delve deeper, you can listen to the complete song here.

Gilbert Bassey, a writer and music artist (Gillian Baci), has long been captivated by philosophical concepts. Explore his soulful music on Spotify.

Chapter 2: The Emotional Landscape of Loss

In this poignant video, "Amy Winehouse - Love Is A Losing Game," the artist beautifully encapsulates the struggles of love and loss, reflecting the sentiment that life often feels like a losing game.

"Duncan Laurence - Arcade (Lyric Video) ft. FLETCHER" explores the complexities of longing and emotional pain, resonating with the theme of accepting life’s inherent losses.