The Meaning Behind The Song: Anything But by Hozier

As a fan of Hozier, I have always been captivated by the depth and complexity of his lyrics. One song that particularly stands out to me is “Anything But,” a track from his album “Unreal Unearth” released in 2023. The song’s upbeat claps and drums create an energetic atmosphere, but when you dive into the lyrics, you realize there is more to it than meets the eye.

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Yearning for Distance

“Anything But” portrays a story of someone yearning to distance themselves from their partner. The lyrics use vivid metaphors to convey this desire to push further away. Hozier sings, “If I was a riptide, I wouldn’t take you out” and “I wanna be the last thing anybody ever sees.” These metaphors, including riptides, stampedes, and thunder, emphasize the longing to escape and create distance.

The use of metaphors is powerful in this song as it allows the listener to connect with the emotions of the narrator. We can all relate to moments when we felt suffocated or overwhelmed in a relationship, and “Anything But” captures that sentiment perfectly.

An Allusion to Dante’s Inferno

Interestingly, Hozier reveals that “Anything But” is a representation of the 8th Circle of Hell, Malebolge, from Dante’s epic poem “Inferno.” This circle is inhabited by those who commit fraud against people with whom they had no special bond of trust.

By alluding to this specific circle of Hell, Hozier adds another layer of depth to the song’s meaning. It suggests that the narrator perceives their partner’s actions as a form of deception or betrayal, leading them to yearn for distancing themselves even further.

The incorporation of literary references in Hozier’s music is not uncommon. He often draws inspiration from various sources, weaving profound and thought-provoking narratives into his songs.

Personal Interpretation

As a listener, “Anything But” resonates with me on a personal level. It reminds me of a time when I felt trapped in a relationship that was suffocating my individuality and personal growth. The song’s lyrics and energetic composition allow me to release those emotions and find solace in Hozier’s understanding of such complex feelings.

This is the beauty of music—it can serve as a cathartic outlet and provide comfort in times of emotional struggle. “Anything But” is a testament to Hozier’s ability to capture the intricacies of human emotions through his music.

Behind the Scenes

“Anything But” was produced by Bēkon, Pete G, Chakra, and Sergiu Gherman, with an incredible team of musicians and engineers involved in its creation. The song was released on August 18, 2023, as part of Hozier’s album “Unreal Unearth.”

Throughout his career, Hozier has consistently showcased his talent for blending meaningful lyrics with captivating melodies. “Anything But” is just one example of his ability to create music that resonates with his listeners on a deep and personal level.

Whether you connect with the metaphorical references or simply enjoy the infectious energy of the song, “Anything But” is a testament to Hozier’s musical prowess and his ability to touch the hearts of his audience.

Sources:

• Genius.com
• Unreal Unearth (2023) album liner notes