Be Human

Song Meaning

This track lays out a straightforward, almost fable-like directive: treat animals with kindness, and they'll reciprocate. The core message is simple – gentleness towards a family pet ensures their gentle response. It’s a call to empathy, suggesting a reciprocal relationship where our own behavior dictates the affection we receive, even from our non-human companions. The lyrics frame this not just as good practice, but as a fundamental lesson that's surprisingly easy to overlook, with a promise of regret for those who do. The central tension arises from the contrast between human capacity for cruelty and the potential for a harmonious world. The narrator urges listeners to avoid a "heart of stone," warning that such an attitude leads to isolation and sorrow. This isn't just about pets; the plea extends to "every animal and bird," painting a picture of a world that could be "in rhyme" if only humans embraced this "human" way of being. The lyrics propose that our inherent human ability to be kind is the key to unlocking a more balanced existence. The most striking element is the playful, almost absurd imagery used to illustrate this kindness. We're told to "Share a tasty carrot with your parrot" and "Serve your chimpanzee a pot of tea," complete with animal sound effects. This whimsical approach, alongside the direct command to "Be human," makes the abstract concept of empathy tangible and memorable. It cleverly uses the idea that while animals can't be human, humans absolutely can, and should strive to be. Ultimately, the effectiveness lies in its earnest, unpretentious delivery of a profound idea. By framing kindness as a practical, reciprocal act rather than a lofty ideal, and by using vivid, slightly silly examples, the lyrics make the concept of interspecies empathy accessible and even fun. It’s a reminder that our capacity for compassion is a defining human trait, and exercising it brings its own rewards, both internally and in our interactions with the world.