The Meaning Behind The Song: Are You Even Real? by James Blake

As a digital nomad who loves music, I often find solace and inspiration through the songs I listen to. One such song that has deeply resonated with me is “Are You Even Real?” by James Blake. I first heard this song on a long bus journey through the mesmerizing landscapes of New Zealand. It was a serendipitous moment where the lyrics and the surroundings merged into a beautifully surreal experience.

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“Are You Even Real?” is a dreamy song that explores the narrator’s experiences during an acid trip with a woman. The lyrics delve into the profound connection formed between the two individuals as they navigate the alternate reality induced by the hallucinogenic experience. It’s as if their bond strengthens through the shared journey, while the line between their perceptions and the real world blurs.

The opening lines, “There’s no five years, There’s no ten years, Only this, Queen of, queen of, queen of queens,” depict a sense of timelessness and immediate immersion into a realm beyond the constraints of physical reality. James Blake’s hauntingly beautiful voice guides us through a lucid dream of dreams.

The chorus, consisting of the lines “Cracking seals, guilty, no appeal, Trip down the hill, strawberry fields, Are you even real? She said, ‘Tell me how you feel,’ Are you even real? Are you even real?” further explores the fragility of the narrator’s perception and the questioning nature of reality. It reflects the uncertainty and vulnerability experienced during such mind-altering experiences.

Throughout the song, the lyrics evoke a sense of longing for genuine connection and understanding. They hint at the duality of human experience, where one might question the authenticity of emotions and the people they encounter. It is a contemplation of the profound nature of human connection and how it can be intensified or distorted through altered states of consciousness.

“Are You Even Real?” is a follow-up to Blake’s previous single, “You’re Too Precious,” both of which explore abstract forms of human connection. It is evident that Blake is fascinated by the complexities and nuances of relationships, both in the physical world and within the realm of dreams and altered states of consciousness.

On a personal level, this song resonates with me due to my own experiences of seeking meaningful connections as a digital nomad. The transient nature of my lifestyle often leaves me yearning for genuine human connection, often leading to a heightened sense of vulnerability and questioning the authenticity of the people I encounter along my journey. “Are You Even Real?” captures this sentiment and expresses it with haunting beauty.

In terms of production, “Are You Even Real?” showcases James Blake’s signature atmospheric soundscapes and soulful vocals. The song is a testament to his talent as a producer and songwriter, capturing the ethereal essence of the lyrics perfectly.

To conclude, “Are You Even Real?” by James Blake is a profound and introspective song that delves into the complexities of human connection. Its dreamy atmosphere and thought-provoking lyrics invite listeners to contemplate the nature of reality, perception, and the desires for genuine connection. This song holds a special place in my heart, reminding me to embrace vulnerability and appreciate the beauty of true human connection.

Album title:

Unfortunately, the article doesn’t provide information about the album title associated with the song “Are You Even Real?” by James Blake.

Credits:

Produced By: James Blake & Josh Stadlen

Written By: Starrah, Peter Lee Johnson, Ali Tamposi & James Blake

Engineer: James Blake, John Armstrong & Carl Bespolka

Label: Universal Music Group & Republic Records

Mastering Engineer: Randy Merrill

Mixing Engineer: Tom Elmhirst

Violin: Peter Lee Johnson

Additional Production: Josh Stadlen

Recorded At: Pulse Studios (Burbank, CA), Home (Los Angeles, CA), Conway (Los Angeles, CA), Electric Lady (NY,NY)

Release Date: July 8, 2020

Songs That Interpolate Are You Even Real?: Cuatro by Shittyoldshirt

Tags:

Pop, Baroque Pop, Alternative, Soul, UK

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