You would not believe your eyes
If ten million fireflies
Lit up the world as I fell asleep
'Cause they'd fill the open air
And leave teardrops everywhere
You'd think me rude, but I would just stand and stare
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems
'Cause I'd get a thousand hugs
From ten thousand lightning bugs
As they try to teach me how to dance
A fox-trot above my head
A sock-hop beneath my bed
A disco ball is just hanging by a thread
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems
(When I fall asleep)
Leave my door open just a crack
(Please take me away from here)
'Cause I feel like such an insomniac
(Please take me away from here)
Why do I tire of counting sheep?
(Please take me away from here)
When I'm far too tired to fall asleep
To ten million fireflies
I'm weird 'cause I hate goodbyes
I got misty eyes as they said farewell
(They said farewell)
But I'll know where several are
If my dreams get real bizarre
'Cause I saved a few, and I keep them in a jar
(A jar)
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems
(When I fall asleep)
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems
(When I fall asleep)
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
Because my dreams are bursting at the seams
Fireflies Video
Fireflies Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Owl City, the electronic music project by singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Adam Young, released "Fireflies" as the lead single from the album "Ocean Eyes" on July 14, 2009. Young, who hails from Owatonna, Minnesota, essentially turned his insomnia-induced musings into a whimsical, dream-like song that quickly captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. With its unique blend of synthesized sounds and evocative lyrics, "Fireflies" became an anthem for those seeking solace in the imaginative escape from reality.
The genesis of "Fireflies" lies in the bout of insomnia Young experienced while working at a Coca-Cola warehouse during his early music career. During those sleepless nights, Young found himself inspired by the tranquil and often surreal state between wakefulness and sleep. Drawing parallels between his inability to sleep and the enchanting light of fireflies on a summer night, Young crafted a narrative that blended his yearning for sleep with the fantastical imagery of glowing insects.
"Fireflies" stands out for its vivid imagery and poetic lyrics, which evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia. The song begins with a gentle introduction that sets the tone for a journey into a magical world where ten million fireflies light up the night sky. This imagery not only paints a picture of a serene, starlit landscape but also serves as a metaphor for the sparks of creativity and imagination that flicker in the dark recesses of the mind.
The chorus, "I'd like to make myself believe that planet Earth turns slowly," captures the essence of the song's theme – a desire to pause time and live in a moment of serene contemplation. Young articulates a universal longing to escape the fast-paced, often overwhelming realities of life and find solace in a dream where time moves according to one's wishes. This sentiment resonates with listeners who find themselves yearning for a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The song also touches on themes of loneliness and introspection, particularly evident in the verses where Young describes his interaction with the fireflies as if they were companions in the solitude of the night. The fireflies, serving as symbols of light in the darkness, offer a sense of comfort and companionship to the narrator, who finds solace in their presence. This interaction between human and nature highlights a deep-seated desire for connection and understanding, further deepening the song's emotional impact.
"Fireflies" achieved remarkable success upon its release, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and securing the number one spot in several other countries, including Australia, the United Kingdom, and Sweden. The song's universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of childlike wonder and nostalgia, reminding listeners of the simple joys of life and the beauty of the natural world.
Beyond its commercial success, "Fireflies" left an indelible mark on popular culture. The song became an anthem for the digital age, resonating with audiences across the globe and transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Its whimsical music video, which features Young playing the keyboard in a toy-filled room as fireflies dance around him, further cemented the song's status as a pop culture phenomenon.
The legacy of "Fireflies" is a testament to the power of music to connect with the human spirit. The song's blend of whimsical imagery, poetic lyrics, and electronic sounds created a unique sonic experience that continues to captivate listeners. As the years have passed, "Fireflies" has remained a beloved track, often evoking nostalgia for the late 2000s and serving as a reminder of the simple pleasures of life.
Adam Young's creation of "Fireflies" from a place of insomnia and introspection demonstrates the transformative power of music. The song not only provided Young with an outlet for his creativity but also touched the lives of millions around the world. "Fireflies" stands as a beacon of hope and imagination, encouraging listeners to find beauty in the world around them and cherish the moments of quiet contemplation.
As "Fireflies" continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, its message of hope, imagination, and the beauty of the natural world remains as relevant as ever. The song serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found – if only one knows where to look.
