Meaning of Movement by Hozier

In Hozier's mesmerizing song "Movement," the overall theme revolves around the transformative power of human movement and its profound impact on our emotions and perceptions. Through his soulful lyrics, Hozier delves deep into the various dimensions of movement, unveiling unexpected and imaginative themes that all connect back to the central concept.One standout lyric in the song is "You are a call to motion." This line signifies that the presence of another person can ignite a powerful inner desire to move and be moved. It explores the idea that when we are in the presence of someone who captivates us, we are inspired to act and change. It speaks to the transformative effect that interpersonal connections can have on our lives, prompting us to break free from stagnation and embrace personal growth.Another poignant line in the song is "Shake like the bough of a willow tree, you do it naturally." This lyric portrays the beauty and elegance of movement, comparing it to the graceful swaying of a willow tree branch. It suggests that natural, uninhibited movement holds its own inherent charm and power. It encourages us to embrace our authentic selves and move freely, unaffected by societal expectations or judgment. It speaks to the idea that true beauty lies in embracing our unique movements and expressions.Hozier further explores the transformative nature of movement with the line, "You're less Polunin leaping, or Fred Astaire in sequins, honey, you're Atlas in his sleepin'." Here, he draws parallels to renowned dancers and compares their movements to that of the listener's muse. The reference to Sergei Polunin and Fred Astaire underscores the exceptional talent and skill that these dancers possess. It conveys the idea that the listener's muse surpasses even the most incredible dancers, symbolizing the awe-inspiring impact this person has on their life. Moreover, the mention of Atlas, the mythological figure who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, suggests that the muse's movement carries immense strength and significance, subtly implying that being in their presence brings solace and support.In one of the most evocative lines of the song, Hozier sings, "Move like grey skies, move like a bird of paradise, move like an odd sight come out at night." This lyric beautifully captures the transformative power of unconventional and striking movements. It depicts movement as a form of self-expression that can transcend societal norms and expectations. The comparison to grey skies highlights the emotional depth and complexity associated with movement, suggesting that even the darkest of emotions can find solace and release through physical expression. The reference to a bird of paradise emphasizes the vivid and mesmerizing beauty that unique movements can possess. It invites listeners to embrace their own unconventional and enchanting movements, encouraging them to break free from the ordinary and embrace their distinctiveness.Overall, Hozier's "Movement" is a breathtaking exploration of the intimate connection between movement and human emotions. It delves into themes such as personal growth, embracing authenticity, the transformative power of connection, and the beauty of unconventional movements. Through his soulful lyrics, Hozier invites listeners to reflect on the captivating influence movement holds over our lives and encourages them to embrace their own unique and mesmerizing ways of expressing themselves.