I'm Alive

The Hives' song 'I'm Alive' is a raw and rebellious anthem that captures the essence of punk rock's defiant spirit. The lyrics paint a picture of a character who refuses to conform to societal expectations and norms. The opening lines, 'They say it's off the record gotta keep it clean. Can't be too abusive can't be too obscene,' set the stage for a narrative about resisting censorship and maintaining authenticity. This character is described as someone who has been delaying his plans for the future, symbolized by the 'safety pin through his cheek,' a classic punk rock image. The mention of being 'three chords short of a punk rock song' suggests a sense of incompleteness or striving for something more genuine and raw.

The recurring phrase 'Wicked is as wicked does' emphasizes the character's embrace of his rebellious nature. He is unapologetically himself, even if it means being labeled as 'wicked' or 'stereotype bastard.' The lyrics 'Can't be all that happy can't be all that gay' reflect a rejection of superficial happiness and societal labels. This character is not interested in fitting into neat categories; instead, he revels in his complexity and contradictions. The defiance is further highlighted by the lines 'They say get off the stage they say get outta here. Can't be all that punk rock can't be all that queer,' which underscore the pressure to conform and the character's refusal to do so.

The song's climax, 'He'll make them wish they never knew him he'll make them pay for being wrong,' speaks to a desire for vindication and a challenge to those who doubt or misunderstand him. However, the admission 'But he doesn't really know how to do that' adds a layer of vulnerability, suggesting that the character's rebellion is also a search for identity and purpose. The final lines, 'So we'll give him three chords to his punk rock song,' offer a sense of solidarity and empowerment, providing the tools for self-expression and defiance. 'I'm Alive' is a celebration of individuality, rebellion, and the enduring spirit of punk rock.