The meaning of Belong by R E M

Purity Ring's "Belong" is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores themes of longing, intimacy, and the human desire for connection. The lyrics are delivered by Corin Roddick's whispery vocals, which add to the sense of vulnerability and intimacy.

The song begins with Roddick's gentle murmurs, setting the tone for a deeply personal and emotional journey. The lyrics speak to the yearning for a sense of belonging, whether that be in a romantic relationship or simply feeling like you fit in with the world around you. "I belong to the beat of my own drum / But I'll follow yours if it's where we both come from" – these lines capture the tension between independence and the desire to connect with others.

Throughout the song, Megan James' ethereal vocals weave in and out of Roddick's whispers, creating a sense of depth and texture. The instrumentation is sparse but effective, featuring "the gentle tick-tock of a clock" as Roddick describes it, which adds to the song's introspective feel.

The chorus is where the song truly shines, with James' soaring vocals bringing a sense of release and catharsis. "I'll follow you into the dark / If that's what it takes to be who we are", she sings, capturing the willingness to take risks and surrender in order to connect with someone else.

Ultimately, "Belong" is a song about the human desire for connection and intimacy, and the ways in which we try to make ourselves understood by others. It's a deeply personal and emotional song that speaks to the hearts of listeners everywhere.