Alive Lyrics – Sia

[Pre-Chorus]
In this section, the singer describes a state of hopelessness and despair, symbolized by a metaphorical place where "all the demons go." This place is characterized by stagnation, where personal growth and progress are impossible ("nothing in the ground can ever grow"). The line "you're taught to cry in your pillow" highlights the emotional pain and isolation that the singer has experienced. Despite these challenges, she emphasizes her survival, indicating her inner strength and determination to persevere....Read More

[Chorus]
The chorus serves as a powerful declaration of resilience. The repetition of "I'm still breathing" reinforces the idea that despite everything she has endured, the singer is still alive and moving forward. The emphasis on being "alive" underscores the triumph of life over adversity and the singer's refusal to be defeated.

[Verse 2]
In this verse, the singer finds solace in an unexpected place, buried deep within her own thoughts ("way in the back of my mind"). She encounters a moment of self-recognition and self-acceptance when she sees her own life reflected in a "stranger's face." This suggests a realization that her struggles and experiences are not unique, and she begins to own her narrative.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus is repeated, reiterating the dark place the singer has emerged from and highlighting her strength in enduring the emotional hardships.

[Chorus]
The chorus repeats again, serving as a reminder of the singer's continued determination to persevere despite the challenges she's faced.

[Post-Chorus]
The repetition of "You took it all, but I'm still breathing" reinforces the idea that despite external forces or difficulties taking a toll on her, the singer has not been defeated. The line speaks to her ability to withstand adversity and continue to thrive.

[Bridge]
In the bridge, the singer acknowledges her mistakes and the wrong choices she's made in life, possibly as a result of external pressures or negative influences. Despite these missteps, she takes responsibility for her actions and asserts her agency by stating that she pursued what she wanted against the odds. The phrase "I would never be forgotten" reveals a desire for recognition and to leave a lasting impact.

[Chorus]
The chorus is repeated again, now with the modified lyrics "And I'm still breathing, I'm still breathing, I'm alive." This change in wording emphasizes that her breathing and being alive are a result of her own strength and resilience, not something that can be taken away from her.

[Bridge]
The bridge is repeated, highlighting the persistence of the singer's determination and her refusal to succumb to the challenges she has faced.

[Outro]
The song concludes with a reaffirmation of life, as the singer repeatedly declares "I'm alive." This closing statement serves as a triumphant conclusion, emphasizing her survival and her ability to overcome adversity.

In summary, "Alive" by Sia conveys a story of overcoming hardships, embracing one's own strength, and finding a sense of empowerment and resilience. The lyrics capture the journey from despair to hope, from feeling lost to reclaiming one's identity and agency. The repeated phrases throughout the song underscore the central message of survival and the enduring power of the human spirit. ...Read Less