Fear

OneRepublic's song "Fear" delves into the contrast between the carefree innocence of childhood and the burdensome anxieties of adulthood. The lyrics open with a depiction of sleeplessness and restlessness, highlighting the pressures and responsibilities that come with growing up. The narrator laments the lack of time and the feeling of being unnoticed, which can be interpreted as a reflection on the isolating nature of adult life.

The chorus takes us back to a simpler time, reminiscing about childhood days spent playing in the streets, free from the concept of fear. This nostalgic reflection serves as a stark contrast to the present, where the narrator is all too familiar with fear and its implications. The repetition of the phrase "we don't know the meaning of fear" underscores the innocence and fearlessness that children naturally possess, a state of being that is lost as one grows older and becomes more aware of life's uncertainties and dangers.

The song's closing lines, "Wish I didn't know the meaning of..." encapsulate a longing to return to that state of innocence and unawareness. It's a poignant reminder of how the experiences and knowledge gained over time can strip away the simplicity and joy of youth. OneRepublic uses this song to explore the universal theme of lost innocence and the inevitable transition from a carefree childhood to a more complex and often fearful adulthood.