Meaning of "City Lights" by Avicii

The lyrics of "City Lights" convey a yearning for escape and a desire to leave behind the weight of the past. The opening line, "City lights, take me away," sets the tone for the entire song, suggesting a longing to be taken to a place far from current circumstances. The repetition of "It's alright, we never look back" emphasizes the theme of moving forward and not dwelling on past mistakes. Avicii highlights the freedom found in the city, where one can hide away and never be found. The references to birds singing if they fall and memories turning into gold further enhance the idea of embracing the present and finding beauty in the moment.

The line "And I don't even know what's real, and I don't know what to feel" reflects a sense of uncertainty and confusion. It suggests a yearning for clarity and understanding in a world that feels overwhelming and complex. The repeated phrase "I'm in love with your light" expresses an admiration for the city lights and the feeling of being enamored by their beauty and the sense of liberation they provide. The lyrics also convey a sense of defiance, with the line "Y'all can't turn us, now we're shutted by lights" suggesting a resistance to the outside world's attempts to bring them down.

Overall, "City Lights" captures the euphoria and escapism one can find in the bustling energy of the city. It represents a desire to let go of the past, live in the moment, and find solace in the transformative power of light and freedom.