Lyric discussion by ak11 

Cover art for This Too Shall Pass lyrics by 311

I LOVE this song. It just fills me with positive vibes. "This too shall pass" is an uplifting, classic statement. In nick hexum's case, he's singing about his youth struggles. I don't think the song is specifically about drugs or drinking, although I'm sure they are included. I think he's singing about all his problems in general. He's saying that any problem he will ever face will pass, so don't worry about the temporary pain. It's an incredibly uplifting statement.