Meaning of "Real" by Of Mice & Men

"Real" explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the face of external pressures. The narrator expresses a sense of frustration and emptiness, feeling as though they have been in this state before. The feeling of being debilitated and the awareness that there must be more to life contribute to their desire to find meaning and purpose. They feel as though something or someone is taking over them, causing confusion and making it difficult to determine what to believe. Amid this struggle, they encounter adversaries in the words spoken by others, who may attempt to shape their identity. However, the narrator refuses to let these external influences replace what truly defines them. The repetition of "start, stop, start over again" suggests a cycle of trying to find oneself, even though the knowledge that everything eventually ends exists. Through the lyrics, the narrator acknowledges the temporary nature of life but remains determined to rediscover their true self and not let anyone take away the best parts of who they are.

The song's overall meaning can be interpreted as an exploration of the human journey to find authenticity and resist external pressures that may try to define or displace one's true identity. It reflects the struggle to maintain a sense of self amidst the noise of the world and the impact of others' words and actions. The lyrics convey the emotional weight of feeling lost or overwhelmed but also highlight the importance of reclaiming one's identity and not allowing others to define or replace it. Ultimately, "Real" promotes the idea that each individual has the power to shape their own identity and should not succumb to the pressure to conform to others' expectations or let them diminish the essence of who they truly are.