Meaning of Like Real People Do by Hozier

In Hozier's hauntingly beautiful song, "Like Real People Do," a myriad of themes are delicately woven together to paint a vivid portrait of love, vulnerability, and the complexities of human connection. The overarching theme of the song explores the depth and intimacy of relationships, specifically focusing on the desire for genuine connection and the fears that may arise when attempting to navigate the intricacies of love.One standout lyric in the song is, "I had a thought, dear, however scary, About that night, the bugs and the dirt." This lyric introduces the idea of vulnerability and the fear that comes with it. It suggests that relationships often involve delving into the darker aspects of ourselves and our past experiences, akin to digging through the dirt and uncovering buried emotions. This lyric hints at the idea that true connections require embracing and accepting each other's flaws and scars.The following lyric, "Why were you digging? What did you bury Before those hands pulled me from the earth?" further explores the notion of buried secrets and emotional baggage within relationships. The lyric evokes the concept that we all carry our own past traumas, regrets, and insecurities. It suggests that opening oneself up to another person can be terrifying because it involves surrendering control and exposing our vulnerabilities. This theme emphasizes the importance of trust and the transformative power of love when it comes to healing and acceptance.Moving into the chorus, the lyric, "I will not ask you where you came from, I will not ask and neither should you," speaks to the idea of not dwelling on the past or getting caught up in the details of someone's history. It suggests that true connection stems from embracing each other in the present and not allowing judgments or preconceptions to cloud the potential for deeper emotional intimacy. This theme celebrates the freedom that comes with letting go of expectations and embracing love without reservations.The chorus continues with the lyric, "Honey, just put your sweet lips on my lips, We should just kiss like real people do." This line delves into the theme of the physical expression of love and its ability to transcend words or societal expectations. It alludes to the idea that genuine connection can be found through simple acts of affection and that true intimacy comes from being fully present in those moments. This theme celebrates the power of physical touch and its ability to create profound emotional bonds.The second verse introduces the lyric, "I knew that look, dear, eyes always seeking." This line explores the idea that humans are inherently searching for something, whether it be connection, understanding, or a sense of belonging. It suggests that we are all on our own personal journeys, and within relationships, we have the opportunity to support and nurture one another's growth. This theme emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in fostering deep connections.The lyric, "In some sad way, I already know," follows the previous line, capturing the notion that sometimes, despite the fear and uncertainties, we are inexplicably drawn to certain individuals. It suggests the presence of a shared understanding or an unspoken recognition that exists even before words are exchanged. This theme explores the mysterious and complex nature of attraction, highlighting the power of unspoken connections and intuitive understanding.As the chorus repeats, the lyrics, "So I will not ask you where you came from, I would not ask and neither would you," further solidify the theme of accepting the present moment and embracing love without judgment or unnecessary probing into each other's pasts. This theme encourages the idea of focusing on the present and building a connection based on shared experiences and genuine affection.In the final lines of the song, "Honey, just put your sweet lips on my lips, We could just kiss like real people do," the theme of physical intimacy resurfaces, emphasizing the simplicity and authenticity of physical affection. It suggests that by engaging in genuine, heartfelt moments of connection, we can transcend societal norms and expectations, allowing love to flourish naturally.Throughout "Like Real People Do," Hozier masterfully explores the complexities of human connections, celebrating vulnerability, trust, and the power of embracing the present moment. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and to cherish the beauty that lies within the raw and imperfect aspects of genuine connection.