Meaning of High by 5 Seconds of Summer

The 5 Seconds of Summer song titled 'High' explores the complex emotions that arise from a past relationship and the lingering feelings associated with it. The song delves into the idea of holding onto memories and the struggle to move on, even when faced with the reality of the other person being with someone else.In the chorus, the lyrics "I hope you think of me high, I hope you think of me highly when you're with someone else" establish the central theme of the song. These lines suggest that the protagonist wants their ex-partner to remember them in a positive light, despite the new relationship. This theme of longing and the desire for validation recurs throughout the song.One standout lyric that adds depth to the overall theme is "I know your friends all lie, I know your friends don't like me, they want you for themselves." This line explores the idea of external influences and the manipulation that can occur within friendships. It suggests that the protagonist understands the ulterior motives of their ex-partner's friends, who may be jealous or possessive. This lyric emphasizes the protagonist's vulnerability and the challenge they face in overcoming the misconceptions surrounding their past relationship.Another significant lyric in the song is "Today, I called to tell you that I'm changing, but I don't think you have enough respect to see me try." This line conveys the protagonist's growth and desire for personal development. It highlights the frustration of feeling disregarded by their ex-partner, who may not recognize or appreciate their efforts to improve themselves. This lyric speaks to the theme of self-worth and the internal struggle of seeking validation from someone who may not acknowledge their growth.In verse two, the lyrics "I know I'll never meet your expectations, but the picture that you paint of me looks better in your mind" delve into the theme of self-perception and the projection of ideals onto others. Here, the protagonist acknowledges that they will never live up to their ex-partner's expectations. However, they also acknowledge that the image their ex-partner has created in their mind might be distorted and idealized. This lyric challenges the idea of meeting others' expectations and the importance of being true to oneself.Overall, the song 'High' by 5 Seconds of Summer explores themes of longing, validation, growth, self-worth, and self-perception. It delves into the complexities of a past relationship and the emotions that arise when faced with the reality of the other person moving on. Through various standout lyrics, the song delves into unexpected themes, providing a creative and imaginative exploration of the individual's inner journey in the aftermath of a breakup.