Heart Like a Wheel

The Human League's 'Heart Like a Wheel' delves into the complexities and disillusionments of modern life, using vivid metaphors and a critical tone. The song opens with a reference to 'Johnny Seven,' a figure who symbolizes the encroaching pressures and demands of society. This character's arrival 'over the sea' suggests an inevitable, almost invasive force that disrupts personal freedom and autonomy. The lyrics question the listener's readiness for a 'real career,' hinting at the sacrifices and compromises one must make to fit into societal expectations.

The recurring metaphor of a 'heart like a wheel' serves as the song's central image, representing a heart that has become mechanical, detached, and unfeeling. This wheel turns away from anything genuine or authentic, indicating a loss of emotional depth and human connection. The heart, now 'beating colder steel,' reflects a transformation driven by the harsh realities of life, where survival often necessitates emotional detachment and resilience.

The song also critiques the global socio-political landscape, with lines like 'Sell your soul to a holy war' and 'You can't keep the wheels turning anymore with anger, blood, and fear.' These lyrics highlight the futility of violence and the empty promises of ideological battles. The mention of an 'M16' underscores the destructive power of modern weaponry, further emphasizing the song's anti-war sentiment. Ultimately, 'Heart Like a Wheel' is a poignant commentary on the dehumanizing effects of contemporary life, urging listeners to reflect on the true cost of progress and the importance of maintaining our humanity in an increasingly mechanized world.