Meaning of "High Hopes" by Panic! At The Disco

The lyrics of "High Hopes" demonstrate the theme of ambition and perseverance. The song starts with the idea that the narrator had high hopes for a living, shooting for the stars even when facing challenges and setbacks. He didn't have much money, but he always had a vision and a feeling that he would be successful. The influence of the narrator's mother is evident as she encourages him to fulfill the prophecy, be greater, and make a legacy. She advises him to burn his biographies and rewrite his history, symbolizing the need to redefine oneself and overcome the limitations imposed by society. The mention of "manifest destiny" suggests that the desire for success is ingrained in the individual's DNA, and they believe they are destined for greatness. The lyrics also highlight the theme of perseverance, as the narrator's mother tells him not to give up, even though the journey may be complicated and love may be lacking. The chorus emphasizes the importance of having high hopes and believing in oneself. The ascent to success is compared to staying on the rise and never coming down, signifying the need to maintain a positive mindset and strive for greatness. The lyrics also mention the uniqueness of the individuals who strive for success, referring to them as oddities, stranger crusaders, and the weird and the novelties. This suggests that they are not conforming to societal norms but are instead embracing their individuality and pursuing their dreams. The lyrics overall convey a message of hope, determination, and the belief that one can achieve greatness with perseverance and ambition.