Belong

R.E.M.'s song "Belong" paints a vivid picture of a woman experiencing a moment of profound change and realization. The lyrics describe her world collapsing early on a Sunday morning, a time often associated with rest and reflection. This collapse is metaphorical, representing a significant upheaval in her life. The imagery of folding the newspaper and silencing the radio suggests a deliberate choice to disconnect from the external chaos and focus inward. The creatures jumping the barricades and heading for the sea symbolize a breaking free from constraints, seeking liberation and a new beginning.

As the woman contemplates this newfound freedom, she begins to breathe more easily, indicating a sense of relief and hope. She whispers to her child, "Belong," a powerful word that conveys a deep sense of connection and acceptance. This act of whispering with calmness and reassurance highlights the importance of finding a place where one feels they truly belong, even amidst turmoil. The repetition of the word "belong" emphasizes its significance and the comfort it brings to both the mother and child.

The song's recurring theme of barricades suggests obstacles and limitations that can only hold for so long. The woman’s actions—taking her child, holding tight, opening the window, and taking a breath—symbolize a conscious decision to embrace change and seek a new path. The final lines, "This song, how long, and knew, knew, belong," reflect a realization that despite the uncertainties and challenges, there is a place where they belong. R.E.M. uses these powerful metaphors and imagery to convey a message of hope, resilience, and the enduring human need for connection and belonging.