How Big How Blue How Beautiful
Florence the Machine Lyrics


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Between a crucifix and the Hollywood sign, we decided to get hurt
Now there’s a few things we have to burn
Set our hearts ablaze, and every city was a gift
And every skyline was like a kiss upon the lips
And I was making you a wish
In every skyline

How big, how blue, how beautiful
How big, how blue, how beautiful

And meanwhile a man was falling from space
And every day I wore your face
Like an atmosphere around me
The satellite beside me
And meanwhile a man was falling from space
As he hit the earth I left this place
Let the atmosphere surround me
The satellite beside me

What are we gonna do?
We've opened the door, now it's all coming through
Tell me you see it too
We opened our eyes and it's changing the view
Oh, what are we gonna do?
We opened the door now, it's all coming through

How big, how blue, how (beautiful)
How big, how blue, how (beautiful)

And every city was a gift
And every skyline was like a kiss upon the lips
And I was making you a wish
In every skyline
And meanwhile a man was falling from space
And every day I wore your face
Like an atmosphere around me
I'm happy you're beside me

What are we gonna do?
We've opened the door, now it's all coming through
Tell me you see it too
We opened our eyes and it's changing the view
Oh, what are we gonna do?
We opened the door now, it's all coming through

How big, how blue, how (beautiful)
How big, how blue, how (beautiful)
How big, how blue, how

So much time on the other side
Waiting for you to wake up
So much time on the other side
Waiting for you to wake up
Maybe I'll see you in another life
If this one wasn't enough
So much time on the other side





How big, how blue, how (beautiful)
How big, how blue, how

Overall Meaning

"Between a crucifix and the Hollywood sign, we decided to get hurt" - This opening line of Florence + The Machine's song "How Big How Blue How Beautiful" refers to the dangerous intersection of spirituality and fame in the entertainment industry. Florence alludes to the cross and the iconic Hollywood sign, known worldwide as symbols of wealth and glamour, to convey the message that these fleeting pleasures can ultimately lead to pain.


The song is believed to be a reflection of Florence Welch's personal struggles during her rise to fame, particularly her experiences with substance abuse and her difficult relationship with her father. The lyrics touch on themes such as the fear of losing oneself in success, the importance of accepting one's flaws, and the delicate balance between love and separation.


The chorus "How big, how blue, how beautiful" is a celebration of life's vastness, its sorrow, and its beauty. The blue refers to the sky, which is often seen as the limit of human imagination, but also symbolizes sadness and melancholy. The repetition of the phrase throughout the song reinforces its message of transcendence and awe-inspiring wonder.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: FLORENCE LEONTINE MARY WELCH, ISABELLA JANET FLORENTINA SUMMERS

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