Meaning of Always On by Squarehead

The Elusive Quest for Permanence: Unpacking the Meaning of "Always On" by Squarehead

As I sit here, reflecting on the hauntingly beautiful song "Always On" by Squarehead, I am struck by the profound sense of longing and yearning that permeates its lyrics. The song’s themes of perpetual motion, dissatisfaction, and the quest for permanence resonate deeply, echoing the universal human desire for belonging and connection in a chaotic world.

A Cry for Stability

The song’s opening lines, "It’s not supposed to be this hard" and "Do you ever think of somewhere else when you’re there?" poignantly capture the struggle to find contentment in a world that often feels overwhelming and transient. The narrator’s admission that they’ve never felt a connection as profound as the one they’re currently experiencing highlights the constant search for belonging, a quest that can leave individuals feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.

The Motif of Time

The line "Better leave your hand upon my heart ’cause it’s turning all the time" introduces the motif of time as an overarching theme in the song. This phrase underscores the emotional restlessness and longing for stability and continuity. The narrator’s desire to escape the cycle of transience and impermanence is palpable, as they yearn for a deeper understanding of the passing of time.

A Journey Through Existential Inquiry

The second verse finds the narrator and their companion embarking on a journey, driving until the sun rises. However, the sun seeming to never set implies a desire to transcend the constraints of time and location. This could symbolize a desire to break free from the cycle of impermanence and find a sense of permanence. The line "And I wondered what the hours meant at the end" reflects a yearning for deeper meaning or understanding of the passing of time, highlighting an underlying existential inquiry.

The Yearning for Permanence

The chorus, "I wish I was always on, I wish I never gone," reiterates the narrator’s desire for permanence, stability, and a constant state of being. This repetition emphasizes the yearning for a sense of belonging and connection, avoiding the feeling of disconnection or detachment. The fear of being forgotten or disappearing amidst the unpredictability of life is palpable, as the narrator longs to be fully present and engaged in all aspects of life.

Reflection and Contemplation

The instrumental break that follows the second chorus provides a moment of reflection, mirroring the contemplative nature of the lyrics. The music itself becomes the conduit for expressing the internal struggle and longing encapsulated in the song. This moment of quiet contemplation invites the listener to reflect on their own desires for stability and the quest for a more meaningful connection in an ever-changing world.

Personal Experience

As I listen to "Always On" for the umpteenth time, I am struck by the way the song’s themes resonate with my own experiences. I, too, have felt the pangs of longing and dissatisfaction, searching for a sense of belonging and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming and transient. The song’s lyrics have become a powerful reminder of the importance of being present and engaged in life, rather than simply existing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Always On" by Squarehead is a poignant exploration of the human desire for permanence and belonging amidst the transient nature of existence. The song’s introspective themes and emotive delivery prompt listeners to reflect on their own desires for stability and the quest for a more meaningful connection in an ever-changing world. As I continue to return to this song, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the present moment and finding a sense of belonging in a world that often feels fleeting and ephemeral.

Key Takeaways:

• The song’s themes of perpetual motion, dissatisfaction, and the quest for permanence resonate deeply with the human experience.
• The motif of time is a recurring theme, highlighting the emotional restlessness and longing for stability and continuity.
• The song’s lyrics reflect a yearning for deeper meaning or understanding of the passing of time.
• The chorus emphasizes the desire for permanence, stability, and a constant state of being.
• The song’s instrumental break provides a moment of reflection, inviting the listener to contemplate their own desires for stability and connection.

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