Alive

Khalid's song 'Alive' delves into the emotional turmoil and existential struggles that many people face. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with feelings of isolation, regret, and the search for meaning. The opening lines, 'Unread texts and missed calls / Told everyone I turned my phone off,' suggest a deliberate withdrawal from social connections, highlighting the protagonist's sense of being overwhelmed and lost. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of life's phases, mistakes, and the longing for redemption.

The chorus introduces powerful metaphors like the 'Gatekeeper' and 'Grim reaper,' symbolizing the search for guidance and the confrontation with mortality. The plea for 'one more night' and 'another chance to say goodbye' underscores a desperate desire for closure and understanding. Khalid's use of these figures emphasizes the internal battle between wanting to escape pain and the innate human drive to find purpose and connection. The line 'I shouldn't have to die to feel alive' poignantly captures the essence of this struggle, suggesting that true vitality comes from facing and overcoming life's challenges rather than succumbing to them.

Throughout the song, Khalid addresses different figures—'Mister,' 'Sister,' 'Gatekeeper,' and 'Grim reaper'—each representing various facets of his emotional landscape. These interactions reflect a yearning for support, forgiveness, and enlightenment. The recurring theme of life being 'sweet until it all goes sour' serves as a reminder of the transient nature of happiness and the importance of resilience. 'Alive' is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of human emotions, the quest for meaning, and the hope for redemption even in the darkest times.