Meaning of "The Original High" by Adam Lambert

"The Original High" explores the theme of seeking excitement, intensity, and the desire to recapture past moments of elation. The lyrics vividly depict the narrator's need for speed, emphasizing the exhilaration of pushing boundaries and living on the edge. The repetition of the line "the medication flowing through my veins was you" suggests that the high the narrator is chasing was not solely derived from substances, but from a person or a relationship. This person provided a sense of comfort and escape, temporarily relieving the narrator's yearning for something more. However, as time passed, the fleeting nature of the high became evident, and the narrator now struggles to find a substitute that can match the intensity of the original experience.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of nostalgia and the longing to relive past memories. The references to Hollywood and the summer evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when the narrator felt alive and free. They long to experience the rush and the touch of that initial encounter, indicating a craving for the intensity and passion that characterized their past experiences.

The repetition of the phrase "Chasing the original high" throughout the song emphasizes the central theme of the pursuit of a sensation that can never quite be replicated. It reflects the human desire to chase after thrilling experiences and capture the euphoria of the first encounter. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and desperation, as the narrator tries to find something that can match or surpass the feeling they once had.

Overall, "The Original High" delves into the complexities of seeking heightened experiences and the longing to recapture past moments of ecstasy. It explores the transient nature of euphoria and the inevitable disappointment when attempting to recreate it. The lyrics serve as a reminder that the pursuit of the original high often leads to a never-ending search, as true satisfaction seems to always elude us.