Meaning of No Small Thing by Tears for Fears

In the mesmerizing world of music, there are songs that not only entertain but also convey deeper messages and evoke profound emotions within us. One such song is 'No Small Thing' by Tears for Fears. Released in 1993 as part of their album 'Elemental', this song invites us to explore its themes of love, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness.The overall theme of 'No Small Thing' can be interpreted as a reflection on the complexities of love, relationships, and the value of personal freedom. It encourages self-discovery, cherishing the present moment, and never settling for less than what we truly deserve in life.As we dive into the intricate web of lyrics, we come across standout lines that contribute to the development of the song's central themes. The first stanza, "Get your sweets from the candy man, Get your truth from the shelf," paints a vivid picture of seeking temporary pleasures and relying on external sources for guidance. However, the underlying theme here suggests that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found by being true to oneself.The chorus, which exclaims, "Freedom is no small thing, We punish the child for flying too high, For rushing like the wind," highlights the delicate balance between personal freedom and societal constraints. It implies that society often suppresses individuality and punishes those who aim to soar higher than the norm. The theme here revolves around the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and not being afraid to break free from the mold.In the second verse, the lyrics "When I'm tired of the bright lights, When I'm tired of the wine, I'll go down to Wheal Mexico, To the depths of the mine" take us on an introspective journey. This imagery represents seeking solace from the superficialities of life and delving deeper into meaningful experiences. It suggests the theme of escapism and the longing for a profound connection with oneself and others.A notable lyric in the pre-chorus, "Reason gonna blind you, Cripple and confine you, Listen as your poor heart breaks," plays with the concept of reason and its potential drawbacks. It explores the idea that relying solely on rationality can hinder personal growth and limit our ability to experience the full spectrum of emotions. This theme emphasizes the importance of following our hearts and embracing the irrational elements of life.As we unravel the layers of 'No Small Thing', an unexpected and imaginative theme emerges from the lyrics: the pursuit of star-like dreams. The line, "(Stars are like diamonds, we fly across the sky for them)" speaks to the longing for something greater than ourselves. It symbolizes the quest for our dreams, aspirations, and the desire to reach for the stars. This theme encourages us to never stop dreaming and to believe in the magic that lies within us.Another imaginative theme that emerges is the contrast between the fleeting nature of momentary pleasures and the everlasting beauty of genuine connections. The lyrics, "We'll buy beer and some hope to share, Every day," suggest the fleeting nature of material pleasures. The theme here revolves around the idea that true fulfillment comes from meaningful human connections, shared experiences, and the pursuit of hope in our daily lives.In conclusion, 'No Small Thing' by Tears for Fears showcases the band's ability to craft a song rich in meaning and imagination. Through its exploration of themes such as love, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness, this song invites listeners to reflect on their own lives. The imaginative themes explored within the lyrics, from embracing individuality to the pursuit of star-like dreams, are powerful reminders that life's beauty lies in our ability to connect, express ourselves authentically, and never settle for anything less than what truly sets our hearts on fire. So, let us heed the call of 'No Small Thing' and embark on our own personal journeys towards greater fulfillment.