Ultralight Beam
Harry Styles
Navigating Faith and Struggle on an 'Ultralight Beam'
Harry Styles' 'Ultralight Beam' is a profound exploration of faith, struggle, and transcendence. The song's recurring motif of the 'ultralight beam' symbolizes a divine or spiritual guidance that illuminates the path through life's challenges. This beam represents hope, enlightenment, and a higher power that provides solace and direction. The repetition of 'This is everything' underscores the significance of this spiritual connection, suggesting that it encompasses all aspects of existence.
The lyrics delve into the internal conflict of maintaining faith amidst adversity. Phrases like 'I'm tryna keep my faith, but I'm looking for more' and 'It's holy war' reflect the struggle between doubt and belief. This 'holy war' is an internal battle, a quest for spiritual fulfillment and understanding in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming. The mention of moving his family to Zambia and the reference to his daughter looking like Sia, who is known for her privacy, adds a personal dimension to the song, highlighting the desire to protect and provide for loved ones while navigating one's own spiritual journey.
The song also touches on themes of loss and reflection. The line 'Laugh in my head, I bet that my ex looking back like a pillar of salt' alludes to the biblical story of Lot's wife, who turned into a pillar of salt when she looked back at the burning city of Sodom. This metaphor suggests the danger of dwelling on the past and the importance of moving forward. Styles' admission of feeling lost and his attempt to find joy despite these feelings adds a layer of vulnerability and authenticity to the song. Ultimately, 'Ultralight Beam' is a testament to the human experience of seeking light and meaning in the midst of darkness and uncertainty.