Role Model
H20
Finding Strength in Self-Reliance: H2O's 'Role Model'
H2O's song 'Role Model' delves into the disillusionment and loneliness that arise when traditional figures of authority and inspiration fail to live up to their ideals. The lyrics express a deep sense of betrayal and disappointment in societal leaders, such as the president and the police, as well as in the media. The singer feels abandoned in a world where right and wrong seem blurred, and trustworthy role models are nowhere to be found. This sentiment is encapsulated in the lines, 'Who can I believe in / When all my heroes are gone / Does anybody out there know their right from wrong?'
The song's chorus emphasizes the singer's resolve to forge his own path despite the absence of reliable guidance. The repeated lines, 'I'm making my own way / Trying to learn from my mistakes / Cuz I've got no role model / No footsteps I can follow,' highlight a journey of self-reliance and personal growth. The singer acknowledges the difficulty of this path but also embraces the opportunity to learn from his own experiences rather than relying on flawed external figures.
In the latter part of the song, the singer takes a decisive stand against the pervasive influence of media and societal expectations. By 'turning off the TV' and 'smashing the radio,' he rejects the false idols and superficial heroes presented to him. Instead, he finds inspiration in the people he already knows, suggesting that true role models are often found in everyday life rather than in the public eye. This act of rebellion against mainstream narratives underscores the importance of authenticity and personal connections in a world that often feels isolating and disheartening.