Meaning of HEAVEN by Troye Sivan

The song ‘HEAVEN’ by Troye Sivan is a powerful exploration of themes surrounding identity, self-acceptance, and the struggle to find one's place in society and in oneself. It delves deep into the internal battles faced by individuals who feel trapped within societal norms and expectations, yearning for a sense of liberation. Through heartfelt lyrics and emotive melodies, Sivan paints a vivid picture of self-discovery and the pursuit of authentic happiness.The opening lines of the song, "The truth runs wild like a tear down a cheek," immediately capture the raw emotional journey the narrator embarks upon. It speaks to the idea of embracing one's true self and the vulnerability that comes with it. This vulnerability is further explored in the line, "Trying to save face and daddying heartbreak," which hints at the internal conflict between conforming to societal expectations and staying true to one's own desires and identity.Sivan continues to unravel his personal struggle with identity through the line, "I'm lying through my teeth." This lyric expresses the hardship of hiding one's true self, pretending to be someone they're not, and the toll it takes on their mental and emotional state. It highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the damaging effects of denying one's true identity.As the song progresses, Sivan delves deeper into the yearning for love and connection, singing, "Trying to replace the love that I fake with what we both need." This lyric touches on the desperation to find genuine love and understanding, not only from others but also from oneself. It emphasizes the importance of finding authentic relationships that nurture and support personal growth.The line, "The truth runs wild like kids on concrete," beautifully juxtaposes the innocence of childhood with the untamed nature of personal truth. It suggests that true acceptance of oneself often involves embracing the raw and unfiltered aspects of our identity. This lyric also serves as a reminder that self-discovery is a dynamic and ever-changing process, much like the unpredictable movement of children on concrete.Sivan continues with the theme of personal liberation, singing, "Trying to sedate my mind in its cage and numb what I see." This lyric portrays the struggles faced by individuals who feel trapped within their own minds, desperately searching for ways to silence the negative thoughts and societal pressures that weigh them down. It highlights the importance of finding inner peace and breaking free from self-imposed limitations.The lyrical contributions of Betty Who in the second verse further enrich the song's thematic exploration. The line, "The truth runs wild like the rain to the sea, trying to set straight the lines that I trace," portrays the relentless pursuit of understanding oneself and finding clarity amidst the confusion. It speaks to the constant search for answers and the determination to find meaning in our own story.The phrase, "Trying to embrace the picture I paint and color me free," beautifully encapsulates the desire for self-expression and the need to break free from societal expectations. It speaks to the importance of accepting and celebrating one's unique identity, unapologetically embracing the colors of individuality.One standout aspect of 'HEAVEN' is the chorus, with its thought-provoking lyrics. Sivan questions, "Without losing a piece of me, how do I get to heaven? Without changing a part of me, how do I get to heaven?" This chorus lyric embodies the overarching theme of the song. It confronts the expectation imposed by society that one must sacrifice or suppress their true self in order to find happiness or acceptance. It challenges the idea of heaven as a destination one must conform to, raising the question of whether sacrificing one's identity is worth the pursuit of societal approval.In the bridge, Sivan paints a vivid picture of counting to fifteen, repeating the action multiple times. This repetition serves as a metaphor for the endless cycle of self-reflection and self-discovery. It represents the journey towards self-acceptance as an ongoing process, without a definitive endpoint. It encourages perseverance and the willingness to explore the depths of one's identity.In conclusion, 'HEAVEN' by Troye Sivan is an introspective and emotionally resonant song that explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and societal expectations. Through deeply personal lyrics and evocative melodies, Sivan reflects on the journey of self-discovery and the struggle to find liberation within oneself. Each lyric contributes to the development of these themes, highlighting the raw vulnerability, the yearning for love and acceptance, the pursuit of personal liberation, and the ongoing process of self-reflection. 'HEAVEN' reminds us of the importance of embracing our true selves and challenging societal norms in the search for genuine happiness and fulfillment.