Meaning of "Reality" by Allen Stone

The lyrics of "Reality" delve into the challenges and contradictions of love. The line "And love is hard, Either it flourishes or it starves" highlights the dichotomy of love, suggesting that it can either thrive or wither depending on how it is nurtured. The narrator expresses a desire to give their heart freely but is hesitant, symbolized by the line "I just can't pull the trigger in the dark." This suggests a fear of fully committing to love without certainty.

The lyrics also touch upon the realization that the love being experienced by both parties is not bringing them happiness. They "both agree that this love ain't bliss" and acknowledge that it is time to end the relationship. However, before cutting ties, the narrator wants to highlight something important. This emphasizes the idea that even in the midst of a difficult situation, there are still important messages that need to be conveyed.

The chorus of the song reflects a compassionate and hopeful perspective. The narrator expresses prayers for the well-being of their partner, wishing for their wishes to come true and offering help when they are in need. This showcases a selfless love that goes beyond the confines of the romantic relationship. The prayer for "peace, love, and prosperity" indicates a desire for positive outcomes not just for the partner but for humanity as a whole.

The final lines of the song repeat the chorus, emphasizing the hopes and desires expressed earlier. The repetition suggests the importance and sincerity of these prayers. The song concludes on the line "Now we've come to this," which can be interpreted as accepting the reality of the situation and recognizing that both individuals have reached a point where they can no longer continue their relationship.

In essence, "Reality" captures the complexities of love, acknowledging its difficulties while also expressing a hopeful sentiment. It highlights the need for both joy and pain in love's journey and emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and selflessness in relationships. The song encourages the pursuit of dreams and the belief that they can become a reality.