educational insights | January 19, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: This Is How It Feels by Inspiral Carpets

The song ‘This Is How It Feels’ by Inspiral Carpets has long been an anthem for those going through hard times. The song was released in 1990 and was written by the band’s drummer, Craig Gill, and lead singer, Tom Hingley. It’s a powerful song with a catchy tune that has resonated with audiences for decades, but what is the meaning behind the song?

Table of Contents

The Lyrics

The lyrics of the song are quite simple and straightforward, telling the story of a person who is going through a tough time in their life. The opening lines of the song set the tone:

“This is how it feels to be lonely
This is how it feels to be small
This is how it feels when your word means nothing at all”

These lyrics capture the feeling of isolation and helplessness that comes with hard times. The song goes on to talk about the struggles of life and how it can feel like everything is against you. However, the chorus offers a message of hope:

“This is how it feels to be free
This is what it means to be alive”

Ultimately, the song is about the struggle to rise above difficult times and find hope for a brighter future.

The Music

One of the reasons this song has remained so popular is its irresistible beat. The upbeat melody is a perfect contrast to the more somber lyrics. The opening riff grabs the listener’s attention, and the song doesn’t let go until the very end. It’s an anthem that inspires listeners to keep pushing on, even when life gets tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is ‘This Is How It Feels’ a sad song?

The song deals with some heavy themes, but ultimately it’s a message of hope. While the lyrics speak to the pain of going through hard times, the upbeat melody and hopeful chorus give the song a more positive feel.

2. Who wrote ‘This Is How It Feels’?

The song was written by Craig Gill, the drummer of Inspiral Carpets, along with lead singer Tom Hingley.

3. What year was the song released?

The song was released in 1990.

4. What is the meaning behind the song?

The song is about the struggle to rise above difficult times and find hope for a brighter future.

5. Who has covered ‘This Is How It Feels’?

The song has been covered by several artists, including Anthrax, Carter USM, and The Charlatans.

6. Has ‘This Is How It Feels’ been used in any movies or TV shows?

The song has been used in several movies and TV shows, including the film Trainspotting and the TV show Skins.

7. What other songs are popular by Inspiral Carpets?

Other popular songs by Inspiral Carpets include ‘Saturn 5’ and ‘Dragging Me Down.’

8. What genre is Inspiral Carpets?

Inspiral Carpets was a British rock band that was popular in the 1990s. They are often categorized as part of the Madchester scene.

9. Has Inspiral Carpets toured recently?

The band disbanded in 1995 but reunited in 2011 for a tour. However, they have not toured extensively since then.

10. Is ‘This Is How It Feels’ a popular song?

Yes, the song is one of the band’s most well-known and popular songs.

11. What inspired the lyrics of ‘This Is How It Feels’?

The lyrics were inspired by the personal experiences of the band members, who had gone through some difficult times in their lives.

12. What is the legacy of ‘This Is How It Feels’?

The song has remained popular for decades and has become an anthem for those going through hard times. It’s a timeless message of hope and resilience that continues to inspire listeners to this day.