Meaning of "Breathe" by The Cult
The lyrics of "Breathe" by The Cult seem to revolve around themes of escapism, self-reflection, and ego. The repeated desire to run away and not be oneself indicates a sense of restlessness and a yearning for freedom from the constraints of identity and reality. The lines urging to breathe, with the added moniker "you bastard," could be interpreted as a call to ground oneself and find solace in the present moment, a reminder that despite the urge to escape, one must still face and accept reality. The references to fifty-five thousand flowers for the hero and satisfying his ego suggest a commentary on the nature of heroism and the need to feed one's ego through external validation, symbolized by the flowers. The imagery of shooting the sun, which could be interpreted as reaching for the unattainable or trying to conquer the impossible, adds a layer of complexity to the song's meaning. Overall, "Breathe" seems to delve into the internal struggles of identity, ego, and the desire for transcendence, urging the listener to find peace within themselves amidst the chaos of existence.