Darwinism

Halsey's song "Darwinism" delves into themes of existentialism and self-identity, using vivid metaphors and imagery to explore feelings of alienation and the search for belonging. The lyrics open with a metaphor comparing the abundance of fish in the sea to the vastness of human connections, yet the narrator feels out of place, as if they are meant for land rather than the sea. This imagery suggests a struggle with fitting into societal norms and expectations, questioning whether they belong in the world as it is.

The song continues with the narrator contemplating their origins, pondering if they might be from "outer space" with "fire in their bones." This metaphor highlights a sense of being different or otherworldly, which can be both empowering and isolating. The narrator's fiery nature scares away potential connections, leaving them feeling like an outlier in a world that seems to have a place for everyone else. The mention of God and the idea of divine design further emphasizes the narrator's internal conflict, as they question whether their perceived flaws are truly mistakes or simply part of their unique identity.

In the latter part of the song, Halsey uses cosmic imagery to express feelings of insignificance and isolation. The idea of being "cosmic dust" and being shot into space to "combust" reflects a deep sense of loneliness and the fear of being forgotten. The song closes with the poignant realization that the narrator was "born all by themselves" and may die the same way, encapsulating the existential dread of living a life without meaningful connections. Through "Darwinism," Halsey captures the universal struggle of finding one's place in the world and the fear of being eternally misunderstood or alone.