Human
Civil Twilight
Exploring the Depths of Humanity in Civil Twilight's 'Human'
Civil Twilight's song 'Human' delves into the complexities and intricacies of the human experience. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and introspection, beginning with the notion of returning to a place of forgiveness and understanding. The repeated mention of 'one way out and one way in' suggests a cyclical nature of life, where one must confront their past to move forward. This cyclical journey is a metaphor for personal growth and the continuous quest for self-acceptance and redemption.
The chorus emphasizes the raw emotions that define our humanity. By stating 'It's only love, it's only pain, it's only fear that runs through my veins,' the song highlights the fundamental feelings that shape our existence. These emotions, though often inexplicable, are what make us human. The line 'It's all the things you can't explain that make us human' underscores the idea that our essence is rooted in the intangible and the mysterious aspects of our being. This acknowledgment of the unexplainable facets of life speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with emotions and the unknown.
In the second verse, the lyrics 'I am just an image of something so much greater, I am just a picture frame, I am not the painter' suggest a sense of humility and recognition of a higher power or greater force at play. This metaphor indicates that while we may not have control over everything, we are part of a larger, more significant picture. The song's exploration of shedding one's skin and questioning the feelings within further emphasizes the theme of transformation and the ongoing search for meaning. 'Human' by Civil Twilight is a poignant reflection on the emotional and existential elements that define our humanity, encouraging listeners to embrace the complexities of their inner world.