Released: 2008
“Human” by The Killers dives deep into the existential crisis of what it means to be alive and feeling in the modern world. It’s a stark look at the struggle between our basic human instincts and the mechanical, often robotic roles society expects us to play. Let’s break it down, keeping it simple, but impactful.
The song starts with a reflection on being conscious and aware in life (“I did my best to notice / When the call came down the line”). It’s about those moments when life gives us a nudge, how we’re brought to points of decision or surrender, but we strive to stay kind through it all. The “platform of surrender” symbolizes moments of vulnerability and decision-making, while acknowledging kindness in oneself amidst these challenges. The mention of getting nervous at the sight of an open door is a metaphor for the anxiety and fear we often feel when faced with new opportunities or changes.
The chorus presents the song’s central question: “Are we human or are we dancer?” On the surface, it seems like a weird question, but it’s actually pretty deep. “Dancer” here can be interpreted as beings who are just going through the motions, mechanically performing the steps dictated by life’s choreography without feeling. So, in essence, the song is asking if we are truly alive, feeling every bit of this human experience, or just moving through our days without truly experiencing them. “My sign is vital, my hands are cold” juxtaposes the idea of being alive (“sign is vital”) with feeling disconnected or numb to experiences (“hands are cold”).
As the song progresses, it mentions paying respects to grace, virtue, and other human qualities, almost as if we’ve lost touch with these ideals. The act of saying goodbye to devotion and acknowledging what it taught us suggests a departure from deeply held beliefs or emotions, indicative of a transformative phase in one’s life. The notion of letting go, highlighted in the lines “Wave goodbye / Wish me well / You’ve gotta let me know,” echoes the difficulty in releasing parts of our identity or life that no longer fit who we are or wish to become.
The line “Will your system be alright / When you dream of home tonight?” questions if our inner self, our “system,” can stay true to our essence amidst life’s chaos, especially when we yearn for the comfort and security of “home,” a metaphor for our true selves or where our heart belongs. The song wraps up its exploration with repeated inquiries about our humanity versus our performative roles, underscoring the ongoing struggle to find meaning and authenticity in our lives.
In summary, “Human” by The Killers is not just a pop rock gem; it’s a powerful introspection on living, feeling, and the constant search for what truly defines us beyond societal expectations. Through its poetic lyrics and compelling melodies, it challenges listeners to ponder deeply about their own existence – are we just going through the motions, or are we fully experiencing the depths of what it means to be human?
