Meaning of "Philosophy" by Ben Folds Five

The lyrics of "Philosophy" by Ben Folds Five explore the idea of finding purpose and stability through personal philosophy. The narrator starts by observing the changes in their environment, from grass to skyscrapers, and how their perception has remained steady. The reflections in their eyes symbolize their unwavering philosophy, which always existed within them. This philosophy serves as their anchor and source of strength during challenging times.

The narrator acknowledges the presence of both good and evil and admits that they have never quite understood the in-between. This suggests that they see the world in extreme terms, finding it difficult to navigate shades of gray. Despite this, they proudly state that they may be seen as crazy, but they still get the job done. This highlights their determination and resilience in the face of adversity, relying on their philosophy to guide them forward.

The lyrics also touch on the narrator's relationship with others. They confess to pushing their loved ones, perhaps in an attempt to inspire or motivate them. However, they realize that their intentions were not well-received, as their companions were not having fun. The image of dragging someone up the stairs and asking them to fly portrays their unrealistic expectations and the resulting dissatisfaction. Their loved ones crying from being "too high" symbolizes their inability to meet these expectations.

The narrator then criticizes those who take things for granted, particularly the mortar, block, and glass of the surroundings. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for people who overlook the significance of their environment and fail to appreciate the deeper meaning behind things. The reference to a forgotten speech that moved the stone suggests that people also forget the power of words and ideas to influence change.

In the end, the narrator affirms their philosophy once again, highlighting its importance in keeping them grounded. They express love for their friend but point out that they lack their own philosophy. This implies that without a personal philosophy or guiding principles, one may struggle to find stability and purpose in life. The song concludes with the acknowledgment that it is time for the song to end, suggesting a sense of closure or resolution.