The Killers’ 2008 album, Day & Age, gifted the world several iconic tracks, from the cosmic vibes of Spaceman to the narrative depth of A Dustland Fairytale. However, it was Human, the album’s lead single, that truly captured global attention and became a stadium anthem. Released on September 22, 2008, this indie rock staple continues to resonate with audiences over a decade later, remaining a highlight of The Killers’ live performances. Yet, beyond its catchy melody and driving rhythm, Human is perhaps best known for one perplexing line: “Are we human, or are we dancer?” These words, uttered by frontman Brandon Flowers, have sparked debate and confusion since the song’s release.
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The Killers Human Music Video still featuring band logo and song title ]
But what is the story behind these now-famous lyrics, and why do they continue to be a source of fascination and, at times, lyrical contention? Let’s delve into the inspiration and controversy surrounding this unforgettable question.
The Hunter S. Thompson Inspiration Behind “Human”
The lyrical core of The Killers’ hit single, Human, hinges on the philosophical question: “Are we human or are we dancer?” To understand its genesis, we need to look to an unlikely source: Hunter S. Thompson. Brandon Flowers revealed to Rolling Stone that the lyric was directly inspired by a quote from the legendary gonzo journalist.
Thompson, known for his immersive and often unconventional style of reporting, purportedly stated: “We’re raising a generation of dancers, afraid to take one step out of line.” Flowers explained that he “ran” with this concept, using it as a springboard for the song’s thematic exploration. The idea resonated with Flowers, who interpreted it as a commentary on societal conformity and the pressure to adhere to norms, potentially stifling individuality and free thought.
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Grammatical Gripes and Lyrical License
Despite the intriguing inspiration from Thompson, the lyrics “Are we human or are we dancer?” immediately faced criticism, primarily regarding their grammar. Purists and casual listeners alike pointed out the seemingly incorrect use of the singular “dancer” instead of the plural “dancers.” This grammatical deviation led to widespread misinterpretations and mockery, with many questioning the lyrical competence of Flowers and The Killers.
However, Brandon Flowers was not oblivious to this. In fact, he was quite vocal in his defense of the lyric. Speaking again to Rolling Stone, he expressed his frustration with the public’s reaction, stating, “I really care what people think but people don’t seem to understand Human… They think it’s nonsense. But I was aching over those lyrics for a very long time to get them right.”
Flowers asserted his artistic license, suggesting that the perceived grammatical error was intentional and served a deeper purpose. He argued for the right of songwriters to bend grammatical rules in service of artistic expression and impact. For Flowers, “dancer” in the singular might represent a state of being, a metaphor for conformity, rather than literally referring to multiple individuals.
The “Confusing Lyrics” Crown
Despite Flowers’ explanations and artistic defense, the lyrical controversy surrounding “Are we human, or are we dancer?” persisted. In 2014, a survey conducted by streaming service Blinkbox Music, involving 2,000 participants, declared these lines the most confusing lyrics in music.
This accolade of lyrical bewilderment placed The Killers above even the famously nonsensical lyrics of The Beatles’ I Am The Walrus, a significant achievement in the realm of perplexing pop. While intended perhaps as criticism, this recognition ironically cemented the legacy of the line and further fueled public interest in deciphering its meaning.
Enduring Anthem, Enduring Question
Ultimately, the debate surrounding “Are we human, or are we dancer?” has likely contributed to the enduring popularity of Human. Whether listeners find the lyrics profound, perplexing, or simply poorly phrased, they are undeniably memorable and thought-provoking. The controversy has kept the song in the cultural conversation, ensuring its continued relevance and status as a Killers’ classic.
While the grammatical grumbles and lyrical head-scratching may continue, The Killers can likely rest easy knowing that Human remains one of their most successful and beloved anthems. And perhaps, in the grand scheme of artistic interpretation, sparking discussion and debate is a mark of success in itself.
