The best Hozier lyrics about Existentialism

Existentialism in Hozier's Lyrics: A Ruminative Musical ExperienceIn the realm of modern music, few artists manage to delve into the depths of existentialism with the same intensity and thought-provoking depth as Hozier. Andrew Hozier-Byrne, known colloquially as Hozier, has captivated audiences with his soulful voice, evocative melodies, and lyrics that encompass a vast array of philosophical themes. Among these themes, existentialism stands out as a recurring motif, explored eloquently and passionately in various songs throughout his discography. In this article, we will embark on an introspective journey, analyzing the existentialist underpinnings in Hozier's lyrics, with specific examples taken from his songs.1. From "Take Me to Church" (Hozier, 2013):"Offer me that deathless death / Good God, let me give you my life"Hozier, in his breakout hit "Take Me to Church," examines existential themes through a critique of organized religion. The lyrics suggest a yearning for spiritual transcendence while simultaneously acknowledging the human desire for autonomy and agency. The sentiment behind "Offer me that deathless death" reflects a longing for a connection beyond the mortal realm, a desire to escape the constraints of earthly existence. It is a plea for something more profound, a search for meaning that is quintessentially existential.2. From "Someone New" (Hozier, 2014):"You're looking tragic, I guess / You should know, though / I'd be good for you""Someone New" delves into the complexities of human relationships, blurring the lines between love, desire, and existential dilemmas. Hozier's lyrics ruminate on the ephemeral nature of connections and the constant pursuit of novelty that characterizes modern society. The line "You're looking tragic, I guess" hints at a sense of existential disillusionment, suggesting that even with new partners, the emptiness persists. The desire to be someone else for someone new is an existential yearning for purpose and authenticity.3. From "Work Song" (Hozier, 2014):"When, my, time comes around / Lay me gently in the cold, dark earth"In the hauntingly beautiful "Work Song," Hozier grapples with the inevitability of death, a central existential pondering. The lyrics reflect an acceptance of mortality and a desire to find solace and reconciliation with the transient nature of existence. By embodying the vulnerability and fragility of the human experience, Hozier delves deeply into existential themes through the potent imagery of burial and the embrace of the natural cycle of life and death.4. From "Cherry Wine" (Hozier, 2014):"Her fighting couragous until the end / But she spends her days just drinking wine / To forget she's missing him"In the poignant "Cherry Wine," Hozier explores the deeply human response to heartbreak and loss, tapping into existential themes of emotional suffering and the search for meaning within it. The lyrics reflect the futile attempts to numb pain, to suppress the overwhelming sense of yearning through distractions such as alcohol. Hozier encapsulates the essence of existential dilemmas within the context of lost love, acknowledging the void that remains despite efforts to forget.5. From "Nina Cried Power" (Hozier, 2018):"It's not the waking, it's the rising"With "Nina Cried Power," Hozier embraces a more socio-politically infused existentialism, examining the power of collective action in the face of adversity. The notion that "it's not the waking, it's the rising" refers to the existential agency inherent in human beings—the recognition that true meaning is found in fighting against social injustices, rather than merely acknowledging their existence. Hozier elevates existentialism to a higher plane, intertwining it with the need for activism and social change.6. From "In The Woods Somewhere" (Hozier, 2015):"In the woods somewhere, in the dust and the dirt / There's a real church / She could never enter / There's a real church / She could never enter""In The Woods Somewhere" portrays the inescapable limitations and restrictions imposed by societal constructs and institutions. The haunting repetition of "There's a real church she could never enter" symbolizes the inability to find solace and fulfillment within traditional structures. Hozier explores existential themes by challenging the status quo, posing questions about the meaning of belonging, identity, and the pursuit of personal truth.In conclusion, Hozier, through his evocative lyrics and soulful delivery, delves into the profound depths of existentialism. Whether it be through the exploration of spirituality, human relationships, mortality, or societal constructs, his songs stir contemplation about the fundamental dilemmas of human existence. The artist's ability to weave existential themes into his music resonates deeply with audiences, provoking introspection and encouraging deeper engagement with the complexities of life. Hozier stands as a poetic philosopher, inviting us to explore the existential quandaries that surround us every day.