Animal
Def Leppard
Unleashing the Beast Within: Def Leppard's 'Animal'
Def Leppard's 'Animal' is a song that captures the raw energy and primal desires that lie within human nature. The lyrics convey a strong sense of yearning and physical craving, likening the singer's emotions to that of a wild animal. The repeated chorus 'And I want and I need / And I lust animal' emphasizes a deep, instinctual hunger for connection, one that goes beyond the bounds of love and into the realm of pure, unadulterated desire.
The song uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of this untamed state. Phrases like 'a wild ride, over stony ground' and 'like a river runs, like a fire needs flame' suggest a relentless pursuit of satisfaction, driven by an innate force that is as natural as the elements themselves. The metaphor of the circus coming to town and the reference to being 'the hungry ones' further reinforce the idea of an insatiable appetite for life's thrills and pleasures.
Def Leppard, known for their contributions to the glam metal genre, often explored themes of love, sex, and rock 'n' roll in their music. 'Animal' is no exception, with its high-energy guitar riffs and anthemic chorus, it's a song that invites listeners to embrace their own inner wildness. The band's portrayal of lust as an animalistic trait suggests a liberation from societal norms and an embrace of our more basic instincts.