Anything But Lyrics – Hozier

[Verse 1: Hozier]

In the first verse, Hozier wishes to transform into various natural entities, such as a mayfly on the River Tay or sunlight on the Mississippi, to experience joy and pleasure in a single, perfect day. This transformation into natural elements symbolizes a desire for freedom and escape from human constraints. The mention of swapping his body for a body of water and causing natural phenomena like floods or droughts further emphasizes his longing for a different existence, one where he can exert control and influence. The verse closes with a poignant note, expressing that even if he were a powerful riptide, he wouldn't harm his loved one.

[Chorus: Hozier]

The chorus reveals the core of Hozier's yearning, as he declares he doesn't want to be anything but would do everything to run away from his current state. This refrain underscores the existential discontent and the desire for transformation that pervades the song. The repetition of not wanting to be anything highlights a sense of aimlessness and a search for meaning, while the willingness to do everything signifies a desperate longing for change.

[Post-Chorus: Hozier]

The post-chorus reiterates the plea to "look another way," suggesting a desire for others to see him differently or perhaps for a new perspective on life. This refrain adds to the theme of wanting to escape and transform, seeking a fresh start or a new identity.

[Verse 2: Hozier]

In the second verse, Hozier continues to explore his desire for transformation, wanting to be as loud as seismic activity or as soft as a single stone in a rainstick. These contrasting desires reflect a yearning for both impact and subtlety. The mention of a stampede that wouldn't harm further emphasizes his wish to be powerful yet harmless. The verse also touches on the idea of a bright future being behind him and a desire to be the last thing anyone sees, indicating a sense of finality and the end of a journey. The reference to someone else touching his loved one's hand and flying away together conveys a feeling of longing and jealousy, wishing for the power to grant eternal life to his beloved.

[Chorus: Hozier]

The chorus repeats, reinforcing the themes of existential yearning and the desire to escape. The longing to run away and the repeated refrain of not wanting to be anything highlight the emotional intensity and depth of Hozier's search for meaning and transformation.

[Post-Chorus: Hozier]

The post-chorus is repeated, underscoring the plea for a new perspective or identity. The repetition of "look another way" serves as a constant reminder of the desire for change and escape.

[Bridge: Hozier]

The bridge further emphasizes Hozier's existential dilemma, as he declares not wanting to be anything but willing to do everything to achieve change. The repetition of "wanna be" reflects the internal struggle and the intense longing for transformation.

[Outro: Hozier]

The song concludes with a reiteration of the post-chorus, reinforcing the plea for a different perspective and the desire to escape the current state of being. The repetition of "look another way" serves as a final, poignant reminder of the yearning for change and transformation that permeates the entire song.