Meaning of Counting Stars by Shawn Mendes

In Shawn Mendes' catchy song "Counting Stars," he explores themes of ambition, desire, and the pursuit of happiness. The song chronicles a restless soul seeking fulfillment and questioning societal norms. While it is easy to interpret the lyrics at face value, delving deeper into the song reveals unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall message.One standout lyric in the song is, "I feel something so right by doing the wrong thing, and I feel something so wrong by doing the right thing." This lyric suggests a dichotomy between what is considered morally correct and what feels right to the individual. It conveys the idea that sometimes straying from societal expectations can lead to personal fulfillment. The theme here is the exploration of individuality and the importance of following one's intuition, even if it goes against the status quo.Another impactful lyric is, "Old, but I'm not that old, young, but I'm not that bold, and I don't think the world is sold, I'm just doing what we're told." This lyric critiques the conventions of society and questions the notion of conformity. It prompts us to consider whether blindly following societal norms is truly beneficial or if it hinders our personal growth and happiness. The underlying theme here is the rebellion against societal expectations and the desire to break free from the constraints imposed by others.One of the most captivating lines in the song is, "Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly." This lyric evokes a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It suggests that rather than succumbing to negative circumstances, they are used as fuel to propel oneself forward. The theme here is the transformation of challenges into opportunities for growth, as every setback becomes a stepping stone towards success.Additionally, the chorus of the song emphasizes the importance of dreams and possibilities. By replacing the act of counting dollars with counting stars, the lyrics suggest that dreams and aspirations hold more value than material wealth. This connects to the overarching theme of the song, which is the pursuit of a fulfilling life rather than being consumed by monetary success.Overall, "Counting Stars" by Shawn Mendes is a thought-provoking song that encourages listeners to question societal expectations and pursue their dreams. Through the exploration of individuality, rebellion against conformity, resilience in the face of challenges, and prioritizing dreams over material wealth, the song paints a vivid picture of the human experience. It reminds us to listen to our intuition, live authentically, and find happiness in the pursuit of our passions.