The Killers’ 2008 album, Day & Age, was a landmark moment for the band, spawning hits like “Spaceman,” “A Dustland Fairytale,” and the stadium-filling anthem, “Human.” Released as the lead single on September 22, 2008, “Human” quickly became an indie staple. But beyond its infectious melody, the song is perhaps most remembered – and debated – for one particular line: “Are we human, or are we dancer?”
Over a decade later, this lyric still sparks conversation and remains a highlight of The Killers’ live performances. But what exactly is the story behind these words, and why do they continue to be such a point of contention? Let’s delve into the origins and the ongoing intrigue of the “Human Or Are We Dancer” question.
The Killers – Human Official Music Video still with Brandon Flowers singing
The Hunter S. Thompson Inspiration Behind “Human”
The question, “Are we human or are we dancer?” is the lyrical centerpiece of The Killers’ hit single, “Human.” But its meaning isn’t immediately obvious. To understand the line, we need to look to an unlikely source: gonzo journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson.
As Brandon Flowers explained to Rolling Stone in a 2008 interview, the lyric was directly inspired by a quote attributed to Thompson. The quote, as Flowers recalled, was: “We’re raising a generation of dancers, afraid to take one step out of line.” Flowers stated that he “ran” with this concept, using it as a springboard for the song’s central theme.
This Thompson-esque idea of societal conformity and a fear of individuality resonated with Flowers and became the foundation for the lyrics of “Human.” The song, therefore, can be interpreted as a commentary on the pressures to conform and the potential loss of individuality in modern society.
The Grammatical Gripes and Lyrical License
Despite the inspiration from a literary figure like Hunter S. Thompson, the “human or are we dancer” lyric was not universally praised. In fact, it drew considerable criticism, primarily for its perceived grammatical incorrectness. The use of the singular “dancer” instead of the grammatically expected plural “dancers” became a major sticking point for many listeners.
This choice was intentional on Flowers’ part, not a mistake. However, this didn’t stop the backlash. The perceived grammatical error led to misinterpretations and mockery of the lyric, with some dismissing it as nonsensical.
Brandon Flowers himself was reportedly frustrated by the negative reactions and the focus on grammar over the intended meaning. He defended his lyrical choices, asserting his right to artistic license. “I guess it bothers people that it’s not grammatically correct, but I think I’m allowed to do whatever I want,” he stated in the same Rolling Stone interview. He emphasized the effort he put into crafting the lyrics, expressing his disappointment that the intended message was overshadowed by grammatical nitpicking.
From Confusing Lyrics to Enduring Anthem
The controversy surrounding the “human or are we dancer” line reached a peak in 2014 when it topped a poll of “weirdest song lyrics.” A survey of 2,000 people, conducted by streaming service Blinkbox Music, declared the line more confusing than lyrics from even The Beatles’ famously surreal “I Am The Walrus.”
Despite being labeled as confusing and grammatically questionable, the lyric and the song “Human” have undeniably stood the test of time. It remains one of The Killers’ most beloved and successful songs, a staple at concerts, and a track that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Perhaps the very controversy surrounding the lyric has contributed to its longevity. The question “are we human or are we dancer” is provocative, thought-provoking, and memorable. It sparks debate and invites interpretation, ensuring that “Human” remains more than just another pop song. It’s a conversation starter, a lyrical puzzle, and a testament to the enduring power of a slightly perplexing, yet undeniably iconic, line.
