
Glass Animals’ album How to Be a Human Being is not just a collection of songs; it is a vibrant tapestry of human experiences, emotions, and existential musings. Each track serves as a window into the lives of fictional characters, offering a kaleidoscopic view of what it means to exist in a world that is both beautiful and bewildering. The album’s title itself is a provocative question: How does one navigate the complexities of being human? This article delves into the multifaceted themes of the album, exploring its narrative depth, musical innovation, and philosophical undertones.
The Art of Storytelling: Characters as Mirrors
One of the most striking aspects of How to Be a Human Being is its use of storytelling. Each song is a vignette, a snapshot of a character’s life, complete with their quirks, struggles, and triumphs. From the nostalgic reminiscence of “Youth” to the chaotic energy of “Life Itself,” the album paints a vivid picture of humanity in all its diversity. These characters are not just figments of imagination; they are mirrors reflecting the listener’s own experiences. In “The Other Side of Paradise,” we encounter a woman grappling with loss and longing, while “Pork Soda” offers a glimpse into the mind of someone wrestling with self-doubt and existential dread. Through these narratives, Glass Animals invites us to see ourselves in others, fostering empathy and understanding.
Musical Alchemy: Blending Genres and Emotions
Musically, How to Be a Human Being is a masterclass in genre-blending. The band seamlessly fuses elements of indie rock, electronic, and psychedelic pop, creating a soundscape that is as eclectic as the characters it portrays. The use of unconventional instruments, such as the marimba in “Season 2 Episode 3,” adds a layer of texture that is both whimsical and profound. The production is lush and intricate, with each track offering something new to discover upon repeated listens. This musical diversity mirrors the complexity of human emotions, capturing the highs and lows, the chaos and calm, that define our existence.
Existential Inquiry: What Does It Mean to Be Human?
At its core, How to Be a Human Being is an exploration of existential questions. The album’s title is a provocation, a challenge to the listener to reflect on their own humanity. What does it mean to be human in a world that often feels alienating and absurd? The characters in the album grapple with this question in various ways, from the introspective musings of “Agnes” to the hedonistic escapism of “Cane Shuga.” Through these narratives, Glass Animals suggests that there is no single answer to this question. Being human is a messy, contradictory, and ultimately beautiful experience, one that defies easy categorization.
The Role of Memory and Nostalgia
Memory and nostalgia play a significant role in the album, serving as both a source of comfort and a cause of pain. In “Youth,” the protagonist reflects on a simpler time, a time before the weight of adulthood set in. This longing for the past is a universal experience, one that resonates deeply with listeners. Yet, the album also acknowledges the dangers of living in the past. In “Mama’s Gun,” the character is trapped in a cycle of nostalgia, unable to move forward. This tension between the past and the present is a recurring theme, highlighting the bittersweet nature of memory.
The Fragility of Human Connections
Another central theme of the album is the fragility of human connections. In “Take a Slice,” the protagonist’s relationships are fleeting and transactional, a reflection of the transient nature of modern life. Similarly, “Poplar St” explores the idea of love as both a source of joy and pain. These songs remind us that human connections are often fraught with complexity, yet they are also what give our lives meaning. The album suggests that, despite the challenges, it is through our relationships with others that we truly come to understand ourselves.
The Search for Identity
Identity is another key theme in How to Be a Human Being. The characters in the album are constantly searching for who they are, often in the face of societal expectations and pressures. In “Life Itself,” the protagonist struggles with feelings of inadequacy, questioning whether they are living up to the expectations placed upon them. This search for identity is a universal struggle, one that is particularly resonant in today’s world, where the pressure to conform is ever-present. Through these narratives, Glass Animals encourages listeners to embrace their individuality, to find their own path in a world that often seeks to define them.
The Album as a Reflection of Modern Society
Finally, How to Be a Human Being can be seen as a reflection of modern society. The album’s characters are products of their environment, shaped by the cultural, social, and technological forces that define our world. From the hyper-connected yet isolated world of “Season 2 Episode 3” to the hedonistic excess of “Cane Shuga,” the album captures the contradictions and complexities of contemporary life. In doing so, it offers a critique of the ways in which modern society can dehumanize us, while also celebrating the resilience and creativity of the human spirit.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Humanity
In How to Be a Human Being, Glass Animals have created an album that is both a celebration and an interrogation of what it means to be human. Through its rich storytelling, innovative music, and profound themes, the album invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, to find beauty in the chaos, and to embrace the messiness of existence. It is a reminder that, despite our flaws and struggles, there is something inherently beautiful about being human.
Q&A
Q: What inspired Glass Animals to create How to Be a Human Being?
A: The album was inspired by the band’s observations of people they encountered while touring, as well as their own experiences and reflections on human nature.
Q: How does the album’s use of fictional characters enhance its themes?
A: The fictional characters allow the band to explore a wide range of human experiences and emotions, making the album’s themes more relatable and universal.
Q: What role does nostalgia play in the album?
A: Nostalgia serves as both a source of comfort and a cause of pain, highlighting the bittersweet nature of memory and its impact on our lives.
Q: How does the album reflect modern society?
A: The album captures the contradictions and complexities of contemporary life, offering a critique of societal pressures while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Q: What is the significance of the album’s title?
A: The title is a provocation, challenging listeners to reflect on their own humanity and the complexities of existence.