My Hero

Paramore's song 'My Hero' delves into the concept of heroism, challenging the traditional notion that heroes are extraordinary beings with superhuman abilities. The lyrics emphasize that true heroes are often ordinary people who perform remarkable acts without seeking recognition. The opening lines, 'Too alarming now to talk it out / Take your pictures down and shake it out,' suggest a sense of urgency and a need to confront reality, possibly hinting at the disillusionment with conventional heroism.

The chorus, 'There goes my hero / Watch him as he goes / He's ordinary,' reinforces the idea that heroism is not about grand gestures but about everyday actions that make a difference. By repeating the phrase 'He's ordinary,' the song highlights that anyone can be a hero, regardless of their status or background. This perspective is further supported by lines like 'Don't the best of them bleed it out / While the rest of them peter out,' which suggest that true heroes endure and persevere, even when faced with challenges.

The song also touches on the theme of authenticity, as seen in the lines 'Truth or consequence, say it aloud / Use that evidence, race it around.' This implies that being a hero involves being true to oneself and standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. The repeated acknowledgment of the hero's ordinariness serves as a reminder that heroism is accessible to all and that everyday acts of courage and kindness are what truly define a hero.