Ordinary Human

OneRepublic's song "Ordinary Human" delves into the complex emotions of self-awareness and transformation. The lyrics begin with the protagonist taking a metaphorical walk in the clouds, symbolizing a newfound clarity and perspective. This shift from keeping their eyes wide shut to staring down represents a transition from ignorance or denial to a state of heightened awareness. The repeated phrase "Today I felt a switch in my veins" suggests a profound internal change, as if the very essence of the person has been altered. The shadows that once represented obscurity and insignificance now scream the protagonist's name, indicating a newfound recognition and perhaps a sense of urgency or importance.

The chorus emphasizes the theme of ordinariness juxtaposed with moments of feeling extraordinary. The protagonist grapples with their identity, acknowledging their ordinary human nature while simultaneously feeling anything but ordinary. This duality is further explored in the lines "I'm just a picture, perfect nothing" and "I'll be a picture, perfect human before the sun goes down today." These lines reflect the pressure to conform to societal standards of perfection and the struggle to reconcile one's true self with these expectations. The act of medicating can be seen as a coping mechanism for this internal conflict.

The song also touches on themes of legacy and hope for the future. The repeated line "There'll be peace in the city tonight" suggests a desire for harmony and resolution, both within the protagonist and in the broader world. The hope that others will "get it right" after the protagonist is gone speaks to a longing for understanding and continuity. Ultimately, "Ordinary Human" is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, the tension between ordinariness and uniqueness, and the quest for meaning and peace in a complex world.