The Yearning for Stability in Roger Hodgson's 'Hungry'

Roger Hodgson's song 'Hungry' delves into the emotional turmoil and existential angst of a man grappling with life's uncertainties. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who wakes up feeling disoriented and disconnected, struggling to find a sense of purpose and stability. The opening lines, 'This morning when I woke up, I fixed myself a drink / I was feeling kind of broke up, my mind was on the blink,' set the tone for a narrative steeped in despair and confusion. The protagonist's inability to see a future or hold a job underscores a deep-seated feeling of inadequacy and hopelessness.

The recurring plea to a loved one, 'Baby, say you'll always get to hold me / Say we'll never go hungry, never run out of money,' highlights a desperate need for reassurance and security. This refrain serves as a poignant reminder of the basic human desire for stability and companionship. The mention of hunger and financial insecurity adds a layer of real-world anxiety, making the song's emotional landscape even more relatable. The protagonist's request for something to hold on to and the hope that life is 'just a put on' reflect a longing for meaning and a fear of facing life's harsh realities alone.

In the second verse, Hodgson explores the theme of identity crisis, 'Some mornings when I wake up I just don't know who I am / If I look behind the make-up, I see a troubled man.' This line suggests a facade that the protagonist maintains, hiding his true feelings and struggles. The imagery of wandering in darkness and talking to walls conveys a sense of isolation and desperation. The song's emotional depth is further amplified by the repeated chorus, emphasizing the protagonist's yearning for love, support, and a sense of belonging. Through 'Hungry,' Hodgson captures the universal human experience of grappling with life's uncertainties and the profound need for emotional and financial security.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. The Awakening
  2. Had A Dream (Sleeping With The Enemy)
  3. In Jeopardy
  4. Lovers In The Wind
  5. Only Because Of You
  6. You Make Me Love You
  7. Desert Love
  8. Puppet Dance
  9. The More I Look
  10. Hungry
View all Roger Hodgson songs

Most popular topics in Roger Hodgson songs

Related artists

  1. Renaissance
    Renaissance
  2. Triumvirat
    Triumvirat
  3. Peter Gabriel
    Peter Gabriel
  4. The Alan Parsons Project
    The Alan Parsons Project
  5. Roger Waters
    Roger Waters
  6. Al Stewart
    Al Stewart
  7. Asia
    Asia
  8. Uriah Heep
    Uriah Heep