What Makes A Man

City And Colour's song 'What Makes A Man' delves into the profound and often unsettling questions about human nature and identity. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of urgency and introspection, as the narrator grapples with existential questions while feeling the passage of time. The recurring motif of a train symbolizes the unstoppable march of time and the inevitability of life's end, creating a backdrop of urgency and reflection. The train's distant cry and the narrator's frantic running suggest a man in search of answers before it's too late.

The song's verses explore different facets of human behavior and emotion. The wind blowing and the sun setting are metaphors for change and the passage of time, evoking a sense of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life. The narrator questions why people live in disguise, break hearts, and turn to prayer in their final moments. These questions reflect a deep curiosity about the motivations behind human actions and the masks people wear to navigate through life. The repetition of 'I think I might know' suggests a tentative understanding, as if the narrator is on the brink of a revelation but still uncertain.

City And Colour, the moniker for Canadian singer-songwriter Dallas Green, is known for its introspective and emotionally charged music. 'What Makes A Man' is a quintessential example of Green's ability to blend poignant lyrics with haunting melodies. The song's contemplative nature encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make. It speaks to the universal human experience of seeking meaning and understanding in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable. Through its evocative imagery and probing questions, 'What Makes A Man' invites us to ponder the essence of our humanity and the forces that shape our actions and identities.