Human

Goldfrapp's song 'Human' delves into the complexities of love, identity, and the emotional turmoil that often accompanies intimate relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of vulnerability and confusion, as the narrator grapples with the authenticity of their partner's emotions and actions. The opening lines, 'They fall from your mouth / Propelled by your own belly / And your tongue,' suggest a sense of betrayal or insincerity, as if the partner's words are driven by something other than genuine feeling. This sets the stage for a recurring theme of doubt and questioning throughout the song.

The chorus, 'Are you human / Or a dud? / Are you human / Or d'you make it up?' encapsulates the narrator's struggle to understand their partner's true nature. The use of the word 'dud' implies a sense of disappointment and disillusionment, as if the partner has failed to meet the narrator's expectations. This questioning of humanity and authenticity is further emphasized in the lines, 'They went searching for your body / They went looking but there's nobody / Who smells like you / Who looks like you / You're not human too.' Here, the narrator seems to be grappling with the idea that their partner is not only emotionally distant but perhaps fundamentally different or alien in some way.

The imagery of being 'thrown down like an old rag' and 'folding into jelly' conveys a deep sense of powerlessness and emotional devastation. The narrator's sense of self-worth is deeply intertwined with their partner's actions, leading to a feeling of being discarded and devalued. This emotional rawness is a hallmark of Goldfrapp's style, blending haunting lyrics with evocative electronic music to create a powerful and immersive experience. 'Human' ultimately explores the fragile nature of love and the existential questions that arise when we feel disconnected from those we care about most.