Meaning of The A Team (ed Sheeran Cover) by 5 Seconds of Summer

The 5 Seconds of Summer's cover of Ed Sheeran's "The A Team" is a haunting rendition that delves into the dark and sensitive aspects of life. The overall theme of the song is centered around the struggles and hardships faced by individuals on the fringes of society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young woman caught up in the harsh realities of life, specifically focusing on addiction and isolation. While the original song already explored these themes, 5 Seconds of Summer adds their own unique touch, bringing their emotions and experiences to the forefront.One standout lyric that captivates the listener is "White lips, pale face, breathing in the snowflakes." This particular line helps to develop the theme of addiction and substance abuse. It suggests that the protagonist may be taking drugs, which causes their lips to turn pale, and the reference to breathing in snowflakes alludes to the act of snorting drugs. This lyric highlights the struggle of addiction and the damaging effects it has on an individual's physical appearance.Another important lyric in the song is "And she don't wanna go outside tonight." This line emphasizes the theme of isolation and withdrawal from society. The protagonist feels trapped within their own struggles and prefers to retreat from the outside world. This lyric creates a sense of loneliness and despair, illustrating the difficulties individuals face when trying to overcome their personal demons."And in a pipe, she flies to the Motherland" is yet another powerful lyric that evokes a multitude of themes. On the surface, it suggests that the protagonist seeks solace and escape through drug use, with the "Motherland" representing a place of comfort or familiarity. However, a deeper interpretation could suggest that the protagonist seeks healing or perhaps even their own death through drug use. This lyric delves into themes of escapism, self-destruction, and the longing for a sense of belonging.One more impactful lyric that helps to reinforce the overarching theme is "The worst things in life come free to us." This line exposes the harsh realities of society, where vulnerable individuals are subjected to the cruelty and suffering that life has to offer. It speaks to the unjust and unequal distribution of hardships, suggesting that the most unfortunate and difficult circumstances are often thrust upon those who are already struggling. The lyric highlights the theme of societal injustices and the unfair burden placed on marginalized individuals.In conclusion, 5 Seconds of Summer's cover of "The A Team" takes Ed Sheeran's original song to new depths, exploring the intricacies of addiction, isolation, and societal injustices. Each standout lyric delves into unexpected and imaginative themes that ultimately tie back to the overarching theme of the song. While it is a heart-wrenching portrayal of the struggles faced by those on the fringes of society, it serves as a reminder of the need for empathy and compassion for those enduring their own personal battles.