| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Duration | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Human | OneRepublic | Ryan Tedder | The Giver: Music Collection (2014) | July 22, 2014 | Pop Rock | 3:49 | N/A |
The song “Ordinary Human” by OneRepublic was first previewed on July 10, 2014 in a trailer for the movie adaptation of Lois Lowry’s book, “The Giver.” It serves as the first track on the movie’s soundtrack. The song’s lyric video was released on July 22, 2014.
Now, let’s delve deeper into the meaning behind the lyrics of “Ordinary Human” and explore the personal experiences it might evoke.
From the very beginning of the song, we can sense a shift in the protagonist’s perspective. The opening lines, “Today I took a walk in the clouds,” and “Used to keep my eyes wide shut, but now I’m staring down,” represent a transformative experience. The song seems to be about breaking free from a self-imposed limitation and stepping into the light, the truth, and the acceptance of one’s true nature.
The lyrics “Today I felt a switch in my veins, used to be a shadow, now the shadows scream my name” further mirror this idea of embracing newfound power and stepping out of the shadows. It is a personal journey of self-discovery, where the protagonist realizes their own strength and ability to make a difference.
The pre-chorus, “And in the daylight, I could swear we’re the same,” speaks to the universal human experience. Despite our differences, at our core, we all share the same fundamental emotions, desires, and vulnerabilities. This line reminds us that we are all ordinary humans, navigating through life in our own ways.
The chorus of the song emphasizes this ordinary human experience, with the repeated line “I’m just an ordinary human” and the vulnerability expressed through “I don’t feel so ordinary today.” These lyrics capture the fragile and fluctuating nature of the human experience. We all have moments when we question our place in the world and strive to be more than what society may perceive us to be.
Personally, “Ordinary Human” resonates deeply with me as it acknowledges that feeling of not quite fitting in. The lyrics “I’m just your picture perfect nothing, sometimes I medicate,” capture the struggle to conform to societal expectations and the desire to find solace in the face of these pressures. The song acknowledges that it’s okay to seek temporary relief or escape through various means, as long as we continue to strive for authenticity and self-acceptance.
The instrumental interlude provides a moment of reflection, allowing listeners to absorb the emotions and thoughts evoked by the song. It serves as a reminder that finding peace within oneself is an ongoing journey, one that requires introspection and self-awareness.
The bridge and final chorus of the song introduce the idea of leaving a lasting impact before departing from this world. The lyrics “There’ll be peace in the city tonight, but when I’m gone, I hope they get it right” suggest a desire to make a positive change and be remembered for it. It reflects a longing for a legacy that brings about peace and understanding.
In conclusion, “Ordinary Human” by OneRepublic is a powerful song that resonates with listeners on a personal level. Its lyrics speak to the universal human experience of self-discovery, vulnerability, and the desire to make a difference. Through its introspective and relatable lyrics, the song encourages us to embrace our true selves, even in a world that often expects conformity. It reminds us that we are all ordinary humans trying to find our place in this extraordinary world.
