Wide Awake
The Fame Lyrics

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I’ve lived in ivory towers
Across a desolate sky
And in my darkest hours
I would never know light

But in my howling daze I’ve seen
I’m alone, and I’m staring right at you
And I have never been exposed

I don’t care, when I look in the mirror, yeah

And I, expose the light
And I, expose the light oh yeah

And I could never conquer
What’s deep in mind
And even if I wonder
I begin to unwind

But in my howling daze I’ve seen
I’m alone, and I’m staring right at you
And I have never been exposed
I don’t care, when I look in the mirror, yeah

And I, expose the light
And I, expose the light oh yeah

Oh, if everything’s true?
Oh, Is it a theory to you?
Oh, Give me something to fear

And I, expose the light
And I, expose the light oh yeah

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Wide Awake" by The Fame touch on themes of isolation, darkness, and self-reflection. The first verse describes the feeling of living in "ivory towers" or isolated from the world, feeling as though there is no light in the darkest hours. Despite this feeling of loneliness, the singer realizes that they are not truly alone, as they have someone to stare at in the mirror, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for introspection and understanding oneself. The second verse speaks to the difficulty of conquering one's inner demons and the tendency to become overwhelmed in the process. However, the chorus offers hope by declaring that the singer will "expose the light," suggesting that they will overcome their struggles and come out stronger on the other side.

The bridge of the song begs the question of whether everything is true or merely a theory, while also requesting something to fear. This could be interpreted as a plea for something concrete to hold onto during difficult times, rather than being stuck in a state of uncertainty and confusion. Overall, "Wide Awake" speaks to the human experience of struggling with isolation and darkness, but finding strength in self-reflection and overcoming inner demons.

Line by Line Meaning

I’ve lived in ivory towers
I have lived in a privileged, elite world separated from the common people

Across a desolate sky
Despite having everything, I felt empty and lacked purpose

And in my darkest hours
During my lowest moments

I would never know light
I couldn't find a way out of the darkness

But in my howling daze I’ve seen
Through my confusion and pain, I have gained clarity

I’m alone, and I’m staring right at you
I am realizing my true self and acknowledging my own identity

I have never been exposed
I have been hiding my true self from the world and from myself

I don’t care, when I look in the mirror, yeah
I am no longer defined by the opinions of others, and I am comfortable with my own reflection

And I, expose the light
I am embracing my true self and shining brightly

Oh, if everything’s true?
If everything is as it seems, then...

Oh, Is it a theory to you?
...do you believe it's just a hypothesis or actually true?