The Human Game
Lisa Gerrard & Pieter Bourke Lyrics

The lyrics of Lisa Gerrard and Pieter Bourke's song "The Human Game" delve into themes of self-discovery, overcoming obstacles, and finding a sense of home through love and understanding. The opening lines, "Under the sun I call your name, I revise your inner flame," suggest that the singer is reaching out to someone, perhaps a loved one or a higher power, to awaken their true essence and ignite a spark within them.

The second stanza reflects on the challenges of living in a world filled with superficial perceptions. The singer refers to themselves as someone who dares to come disguised, recognizing the limitations and illusions created by human perception. "Vivid and pale" conveys the vividness of life's experiences contrasted with the pale, fleeting nature of these moments.

As the song progresses, there is a sense of unraveling or breaking free from these illusions. The line "We recoil with invisible bliss, losing there the claim to the comfort of deaths pre-designed" suggests that by questioning these preconceived notions and societal expectations, the singer finds a sense of freedom and joy in discovering their own path.

The chorus, "Out of the pool and into the flame, we begin the human game," captures the idea of leaving behind the safety of familiarity (the "pool") and embracing the challenges and trials of life (the "flame"). It highlights the singer's willingness to take risks and engage fully in the human experience.

The following verses emphasize the transformative power of love and understanding. The lyrics suggest that by facing our fears, opening ourselves up to vulnerability, and finding solace in the embrace of another person's arms, we can transcend our pain and find a sense of home. The line "Somewhere I'll find you inside, the answer when we remember who we can really be" implies that by journeying inward and connecting with others, we find the answers we seek and rediscover our true selves.

In the final repetition of the chorus, "Out of your tears, lend me your fears, and fly away, rest within arms that promise to come, your pain away," the lyrics once again emphasize the power of love and support in healing our wounds and finding solace. They encourage the listener to release their pain and find refuge in the embrace of those who promise comfort and relief.

Overall, "The Human Game" explores the complex and tumultuous journey of being human - the struggle to break free from societal constraints, the transformative power of love, and the search for a place to belong. It suggests that by embracing vulnerability and connection, we can unravel the illusions that hold us back and find our true selves in the process.