Immortals
Fall Out Boy
Exploring the Quest for Timeless Connection in Fall Out Boy's 'Immortals'
Fall Out Boy's 'Immortals' is a song that delves into the themes of legacy, the desire for permanence, and the struggle against the inevitable passage of time. The band, known for their pop-punk sound and introspective lyrics, often explores complex emotional landscapes, and 'Immortals' is no exception. The song was released as part of the soundtrack for the Disney movie 'Big Hero 6', which may also influence its themes of heroism and enduring impact.
The lyrics 'They say we are what we are, but we don't have to be' suggest a defiance against preconceived notions of identity and fate. The protagonist of the song is portrayed as someone who is flawed ('I'm bad behavior') but embraces these flaws in a positive light ('but I do it in the best way'). The imagery of being 'the watcher of the eternal flame' and 'the guard dog of all your fever dreams' evokes a sense of protection and vigilance over something precious and enduring, perhaps the legacy one leaves behind or the memories shared with someone special.
The chorus, with its repetition of 'we could be immortals, just not for long, for long,' captures the paradox of striving for immortality while acknowledging the transient nature of life. The desire to 'live with me forever now, pull the blackout curtains down' speaks to a yearning to hold onto moments of connection and intimacy, to create a space where time stands still, even if it's acknowledged that such a state is temporary. The song's bridge, 'Sometimes the only payoff for having any faith is when it's tested again and again every day,' reflects on the resilience required to maintain hope and belief in the face of life's challenges. 'Immortals' is a powerful anthem about the human desire to make a lasting mark on the world, to find strength in connection, and to face the future with a sense of purpose, even when the future is uncertain.