Meaning of Anything But by Hozier

The Hozier song titled "Anything But" is a compelling piece that explores the longing for freedom and escape from constraints. The overall theme of the song revolves around the desire to break free from the limitations of one's existence and live a life without boundaries. It delves into the notion of wishing to be something entirely different, something extraordinary, and how these imaginings contribute to the longing for liberation.One standout lyric from the song is: "I wish I was a mayfly on the River Tay, I'd fit all my joys and my pleasures in one perfect day." This lyric exemplifies the longing for a brief but intense existence, where every moment is filled with joy and fulfillment. It reveals the desire to condense a lifetime of experiences into a single day, highlighting the yearning for a life free from the mundane and ordinary.Another powerful lyric is: "I'd settle for a shopping trolley in The Liffey, in a shot, I'd swap my body for a body of water." This line showcases the willingness to give up the material trappings of life and embrace the fluidity and freedom of nature. It explores the idea of being unburdened by earthly possessions and transforming into a force of nature, symbolized by becoming a body of water. It demonstrates the yearning to become one with the elements and dissolve the boundaries that confine.The lyric "I'd lower the world in a flood or, better yet, I'd cause drought" delves into the fantasy of having control over the world's natural forces. It represents the desire for immense power and the ability to shape the world according to one's desires. This theme ties back to the overarching longing for liberation and the yearning to escape the limitations of one's own existence.In the chorus, the lyrics "I don't wanna be anything, but I would do everything just to run away" encapsulate the central theme of the song. It emphasizes the yearning for escape and the willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve that freedom. It highlights the idea that being anything, or conforming to societal expectations, is undesirable if it means sacrificing the chance to break free from constraints.Overall, the song "Anything But" by Hozier takes listeners on a captivating journey through a web of imaginative and unexpected themes. It symbolizes the longing for freedom, the desire to break free from constraints, and the yearning to live a life without boundaries. Each standout lyric helps develop these themes by exploring the idea of transgressing societal norms, embracing the power of nature, and longing for control over the world. Through its poetic and evocative lyrics, the song invites listeners to embark on a deeply introspective journey and reflect on their own desires for liberation and escape.