Meaning of "Wild Horses" by Birdy

The lyrics of "Wild Horses" delve into themes of longing, loss, resilience, and the necessity of letting go. The song begins with the narrator describing themselves as a dreamer, but unable to find peace in their sleep because their mind is preoccupied with thoughts of someone who has disappeared from their life. This person's absence is deeply felt, leaving a void that the narrator yearns to fill. They compare this person to an angel, emphasizing the impact they had on the narrator's life and the struggle to come to terms with their absence.

The metaphorical imagery of a window being dark inside but with light shining in implies that there is hope and a possibility of finding happiness even in the midst of despair. However, the narrator realizes that the pain they are feeling contradicts the idea of love. They acknowledge that they need to let go in order to heal and move forward.

The chorus reinforces the theme of resilience and determination. The narrator vows to survive and grow stronger from the experience of loss. They refuse to beg for the person to stay, emphasizing their independence and self-worth. The mention of wild horses running in them illustrates their inner strength and untamed spirit.

The second verse reminisces about the intimate moments shared with the person they are missing. The closeness and connection they once had are vividly described, highlighting the significance and joy it brought to the narrator's life. The memories, compared to fading scars and shooting stars, symbolize their beauty and fleeting nature.

The bridge of the song explores the strength of the human heart and its ability to withstand pain and adversity. It acknowledges that along the journey, hearts can get lost and forget their inherent strength. However, letting go and moving to a better place is not seen as giving up, but as a necessary step towards finding healing and happiness.

The repetition of the chorus in the outro emphasizes the determination and resolve of the narrator to survive and be stronger. The mention of wild horses running in them serves as a powerful symbol of their resilience and untamed spirit.

Overall, "Wild Horses" tells a story of longing, loss, and resilience. It highlights the painful process of letting go and finding strength within oneself to move forward. The lyrics provide a message of hope and empowerment, reminding listeners of their inner strength and ability to overcome challenges.