Meaning of "Preacher" by OneRepublic

The lyrics of "Preacher" delve into the singer's childhood memories and the impact of their grandfather, who was a preacher. The song starts with a nostalgic tone, highlighting the singer's imagination as a child and their ability to float freely, both physically and metaphorically. However, the line "Broke every window in my hotel heart" suggests that the innocence of childhood was disrupted at a young age, leaving lasting scars.

The singer recalls their grandfather's teachings, portraying him as someone who spoke about faith and God as a compassionate teacher. His message was that God only assists those who are willing to help themselves. Despite not possessing material wealth, the grandfather was rich in wisdom and integrity.

As the song progresses, the speaker reflects on their own journey, which involved taking a leap of faith by leaving their familiar surroundings and venturing into unknown territory. The "parking lot" symbolizes a stagnant and unfulfilling existence, while the "strange town" represents new opportunities and the contrasting wealth disparity between the haves and have-nots. The singer searches for an angelic figure to help them overcome the challenges and darkness they encounter.

The repetition of the phrase "When I was a kid, my grandfather was a preacher" serves as a refrain, emphasizing the impact and significance of the singer's grandparent. It reinforces the idea that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the values and teachings imparted by loved ones. The closing lines emphasize that the grandfather may not have been financially wealthy, but the intangible wealth he possessed was immeasurable.

Overall, "Preacher" conveys a message of the importance of faith, self-help, and the idea that true wealth and fulfillment come from within, rather than from external sources of power or money.