Hero
Skillet
The Quest for Salvation in Skillet's 'Hero'
Skillet's 'Hero' is a powerful rock anthem that delves into the human desire for a savior during times of despair and struggle. The lyrics express a sense of urgency and vulnerability, acknowledging the limitations of being human and the need for external help. The protagonist of the song feels close to losing faith and is on the brink of giving up, symbolized by phrases like 'falling off the edge today' and 'just a step from the edge.' This imagery suggests a critical point in life where one is desperately seeking a lifeline.
The repeated call for a 'hero' to save the day reflects the universal search for strength and support when facing overwhelming challenges. The song emphasizes that the hero needed is not necessarily a superhuman figure, but rather someone who can provide the necessary help to overcome adversity. The lyrics 'I'm not superhuman' and 'I've gotta make a stand' highlight the recognition of one's own limitations and the determination to be heard and to fight for what is right, despite these limitations.
The song also touches on themes of self-sacrifice and the fight for justice. The lines 'Who's gonna fight for what's right?' and 'Who's gonna fight for the weak?' pose questions about moral courage and advocacy for those who cannot defend themselves. The notion that a hero lives within, as stated in 'I've got a hero livin' in me,' suggests that the power to be a hero and effect change comes from within oneself, and that everyone has the potential to be a hero in their own right.