Meaning of "Human" by OneRepublic
"Human" by OneRepublic delves into the intricate emotions and experiences that come with being human. The narrator begins by acknowledging their conversation with God, apologizing for the lack of communication they have had. They express their need for guidance and support, confessing that the things they have been trying have only resulted in frustration. The lyrics highlight the universal theme that life is not always what it seems, presenting challenges in any situation. The narrator then relays the strangest thing God said to them: a series of questions about the human experience. God wonders how it feels to have one's best plans ruined, to be cursed by others, and to witness flowers not blooming. These questions suggest that the human experience is filled with ups and downs, disappointments, and struggles. The narrator understands the complexities of life and seeks understanding from a higher power.
The second verse continues the conversation with God, posing further questions about the nature of life. The narrator asks why life is a "crazy combination" and mentions the numbers they cannot comprehend. This highlights the enigmatic and often unpredictable nature of existence. The narrator acknowledges having friends but confesses that complications often arise within those relationships. They mention the reliance on medication and express a longing for wings, symbolizing a desire for freedom and escape from the challenges they face. The second chorus reiterates God's initial questions, emphasizing the universal nature of the struggles faced by humans.
The chorus symbolizes the longing to experience life as a human. The narrator imagines what it would feel like to dance until the sun comes up, to live life fully immersed in their own music. These desires and reflections on the human experience serve to highlight the inherent complexity of humanity. Through their conversation with God, the lyrics convey a sense of seeking understanding, catharsis, and a longing for a change in perspective.
