The composition Like Real People Do by Hozier presents a profoundly moving examination of love, intimacy, and the complex essence of human relationships. Introduced in his debut album Hozier in 2014, this piece intertwines poetic imagery with significant emotional depth.
In this lyrical analysis of Like Real People Do by Hozier we investigate the nuanced layers of the lyrics, revealing the underlying themes and sentiments conveyed. Through a meticulous interpretation, we uncover how the song’s verses encapsulate both the fragility and the implicit connection shared between two people in a romantic bond.
Setting the Scene: The Opening Verse
From the opening lines of the song, Hozier establishes an ambiance filled with intrigue and tension. The lyrics, “I had a thought, dear, / However scary / About that night / The bugs and the dirt,” instantly immerse the listener in a scenario that is both personal and disquieting. The reference to “bugs and dirt” evokes a sense of earthiness and rawness, symbolizing the physical and emotional complexities of the relationship. There is an implication of something concealed, something lurking beneath the surface that the protagonist is just beginning to grasp.
The line “Why were you digging? / What did you bury / Before those hands pulled me / From the earth?” further enhances this atmosphere of uncertainty. It implies that the individual being addressed has engaged in something clandestine, possibly sinister. However, instead of seeking clarification, the speaker opts to refrain from asking questions. This choice may reflect a sense of resignation or acceptance of the enigma, suggesting that some matters are perhaps best left unexamined.
The Theme of Acceptance and Non-Judgment
As the song Like Real People Do by Hozier unfolds, the narrator demonstrates a readiness to embrace the other individual as they are, free from judgment or probing inquiries. The chorus “I will not ask you where you came from / I will not ask you, neither should you” signifies a shared understanding between the two characters in the song. This phrase underscores a relational dynamic founded on acceptance, where neither individual feels obligated to disclose the intricacies of their past. The lack of questioning fosters a secure environment, a refuge for intimacy to develop without the weight of previous errors or concealed truths.
The recurrence of these lines reinforces the notion that certain matters are better left unspoken, accentuating the emotional closeness that emerges from this tacit agreement. In a society where curiosity frequently prompts individuals to ask intrusive questions, this principle of refraining from inquiry distinguishes their relationship from others. It is not about revealing hidden realities; rather, it centers on the importance of simply being present with one another in the moment.
The Central Metaphor: Kissing “Like Real People Do”
One of the most notable features of the song Like Real People Do by Hozier is the metaphor of kissing “like real people do.” At first glance, this phrase may appear straightforward or even romantic; however, within the broader context of the song, it conveys a more profound significance. The reference to “real people” implies that the intimacy shared by the two individuals goes beyond mere superficial gestures. It emphasizes a connection on a human level, where love and affection are experienced in their most genuine form, unencumbered by societal norms or personal issues.
The repeated line “Honey just put your sweet lips on my lips / We should just kiss like real people do” expresses a longing to engage in love that is truly authentic. This desire for a sincere connection lies at the core of the song, indicating that the kiss represents more than a physical interaction. It transforms into a symbol of emotional liberation, a respite from the complexities of life, and a return to simplicity. In this moment of kissing, there is no requirement for explanation or understanding—only a shared experience of tenderness and trust.
The Darkness and the Light
Hozier’s lyrics intricately incorporate an element of darkness that stands in stark contrast to the tenderness of the relationship. The lines “I knew that look dear / Eyes always seeking / Was there in someone / That dug long ago” hint at a historical context that the speaker appears reluctant to face. The reference to someone “that dug long ago” connects to the earlier metaphor of digging, implying that the individual’s past may harbor emotional or physical wounds that are not immediately visible.
Nevertheless, the narrator refrains from demanding explanations. Instead, they seem to recognize this underlying darkness without casting judgment, indicating an implicit understanding of the situation. This illustrates the intricacies of human relationships, where, even amidst uncertainty or potential discomfort, the connection between the two individuals remains resilient. The phrase “I already know” serves as both recognition and acceptance of the other’s history, highlighting that understanding can sometimes transcend verbal communication.
Repetition as a Tool for Emphasis
Hozier skillfully utilizes repetition throughout the song to enhance emotional resonance. The chorus notably reiterates the phrase “Honey just put your sweet lips on my lips / We should just kiss like real people do” on multiple occasions. This technique serves various functions. Primarily, it underscores the song’s core theme: the yearning for an authentic and genuine connection. Additionally, it articulates the narrator’s deep desire for intimacy and closeness, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment.
Through the repetition of these lines, Hozier instills a sense of urgency and length. With each iteration, the listener experiences an intensifying desire for connection, suggesting that the kiss symbolizes not merely a physical interaction, but also a release of the tension and unresolved feelings that have built up throughout the song.
The Final Verse: Reflection and Understanding
As the song draws to a close, the repeated phrases “I could not ask you where you came from / I could not ask you, neither could you” imply that both parties have reached a state of shared understanding. There is no longer a need for inquiries, as they find satisfaction in simply being together in the present, without delving into their histories. This conclusion underscores the theme of acceptance, where the act of kissing, akin to what genuine individuals do, represents not merely a romantic act but a deeper, more significant bond.
The final lines of the song bring the audience back to the initial feeling expressed in the opening verse. By opting to forgo questions and instead emphasizing the closeness of the kiss, the two characters illustrate a remarkable degree of trust and emotional intimacy. They are unconcerned with the intricacies of each other’s backgrounds, focusing instead on the fundamental experience of being present with one another.
The Unspoken and the Emotional
One of the most compelling features of “Like Real People Do” is its ability to express profound emotions through subtle, unspoken interactions. The song does not depend on grand gestures or overt proclamations of affection. Rather, it conveys a sense of vulnerability and closeness through meticulously selected words and imagery. The recurring refrain of kissing “like real people do” serves as a poignant metaphor for the simplicity and authenticity that many desire in their relationships.
The song implies that love, in its most genuine form, transcends perfection or idealization. It revolves around the acceptance of one another as flawed, intricate individuals and discovering connection amidst the chaos of life. Hozier’s lyrics inspire the listener to embrace the raw, unrefined elements of themselves and their relationships, recognizing that it is through these imperfections that true intimacy can thrive.
Expert Editorial Comment
The lyrical examination of Like Real People Do by Hozier culminates in a profound contemplation of love, acceptance, and the essence of human connection. The song of elves into themes of mystery, intimacy, and the unarticulated understanding shared between two individuals, striking a chord with its audience. Through vivid imagery, recurring refrains, and an emphasis on vulnerability, Hozier weaves a narrative that encourages listeners to introspect on their own relationships and the intricacies of human emotions.
This composition exemplifies the effectiveness of simplicity in conveying intricate feelings. In a world frequently inundated with noise and expectations, “Like Real People Do” provides a serene opportunity for reflection on the true nature of connecting with another person on a profound and genuine level. Whether it pertains to the yearning for an authentic kiss, the acceptance of uncertainty, or the choice to embrace love without prejudice, Hozier’s lyrics serve as a reminder that often, the most significant moments are those that do not necessitate verbal expression.
Lyrical Analysis of the Song Like Real People Do by Hozier