Diametrical

Song Meaning

Alexz Johnson's "Diametrical" is a raw, almost brutal, exploration of duality. It's a song wrestling with the inherent contradictions within the human experience, and perhaps more specifically, within relationships. The rapid-fire listing of opposing forces—"Give, get, bend, break, why fight, live, die"—creates a sense of breathless chaos, mirroring the internal conflict the lyrics describe. Johnson isn't just pointing out these contrasts; she's immersing the listener in their dizzying reality. The song refuses to offer easy answers, instead choosing to highlight the push and pull that defines so much of life. The core question seems to be: can opposing forces exist in harmony, or are we doomed to be torn apart by them? The repeated phrase "If you want it all diametrical" suggests a challenge, almost daring the listener to embrace the complexity. The chorus is where the song's central thesis crystallizes. Describing the concept as "antithetical and diabolical," Johnson doesn't shy away from the darker implications of embracing duality. The lines "Don't be cynical, it's non-negotiable / So symmetrical and yet emotional" are particularly compelling. They hint at a necessary acceptance of these contradictions, suggesting that even within chaos, there's an underlying order or balance. The word "symmetrical" is key here; it implies a structured opposition, where each force is equally powerful and necessary for the whole. The acknowledgement that it's "emotional" confirms that Johnson is not just dealing with a philosophical idea, but a lived, felt experience. The symmetry doesn't negate the emotional turmoil; it exists alongside it. Ultimately, "Diametrical" feels like an anthem for those who refuse to simplify the world. The bridge, with lines like "It's the fear of failure / That keeps us moving forward / Let me be your jailer / You're stronger when you're cornered," adds another layer to the song's meaning. It suggests that even negative experiences, like fear or confinement, can be catalysts for growth. This idea reinforces the overall theme of finding strength and even beauty in the face of opposition. The song's meaning isn't about resolving these contradictions, but about acknowledging their power and using them to fuel forward momentum. Alexz Johnson gives the listener permission to embrace the messy, complicated, and often paradoxical nature of existence.