The Killers’ 2008 album, Day & Age, delivered several hits, but none as instantly recognizable and debated as Human. Released as the lead single on September 22nd, 2008, Human quickly became an indie rock staple and a stadium singalong favorite. Its driving beat and soaring chorus are undeniable, yet one particular lyric continues to spark conversation and confusion: “Are we human or are we dancer?”
The Killers Human Official Music Video still featuring Brandon Flowers and band members performing.
Over a decade later, this question remains central to the song’s identity. But where did this seemingly strange lyric originate? Why has it caused so much debate? And what does it really mean within the context of The Killers’ hit song? Let’s delve into the story behind the “Are We Human Or Are We Dancer Lyrics”.
The Hunter S. Thompson Inspiration Behind “Are We Human or Are We Dancer”
The enigmatic line, “are we human or are we dancer?”, wasn’t born from Brandon Flowers’ sole imagination. As Flowers himself explained to Rolling Stone in a 2008 interview, the lyric is rooted in a quote from the iconic gonzo journalist, Hunter S. Thompson.
Thompson, known for his counter-culture perspective and sharp social commentary, famously stated: “We’re raising a generation of dancers, afraid to take one step out of line.” Flowers revealed that he “ran” with this concept, using it as the thematic core for Human.
Thompson’s original quote critiques societal conformity and the pressure to adhere to norms, creating individuals who are like “dancers” – trained to follow precise steps and movements, afraid to deviate or express individuality. Flowers interpreted this idea and transformed it into the central question of Human, exploring themes of control versus freedom, and individuality versus societal expectation.
The Grammatical Controversy and Public Reaction to the Lyrics
Despite its philosophical underpinnings, the “are we human or are we dancer lyrics” immediately faced criticism, primarily regarding its grammar. Flowers’ deliberate use of the singular “dancer” instead of the grammatically correct plural “dancers” sparked widespread debate and, at times, ridicule.
Many listeners and critics misquoted or misunderstood the lyrics, focusing on the perceived grammatical error rather than the intended meaning. This reaction clearly frustrated Flowers at the time. In the same Rolling Stone interview, he expressed his concern: “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.”
He defended his artistic choice, stating, “I guess it bothers people that it’s not grammatically correct, but I think I’m allowed to do whatever I want.” This defiance highlights the tension between artistic license and public expectation, particularly when dealing with potentially ambiguous lyrics.
The public’s confusion about the “are we human or are we dancer lyrics” was further solidified when, in 2014, the lines were voted the “weirdest song lyrics” in a survey conducted by Blinkbox Music. Beating out even The Beatles’ famously surreal I Am The Walrus, this poll result underscored the enduring puzzlement surrounding the seemingly simple question posed in Human.
Enduring Anthem Despite the Lyric Debate
Despite the ongoing debate and occasional mockery surrounding the “are we human or are we dancer lyrics”, Human remains one of The Killers’ most successful and beloved songs. Its anthemic quality, combined with its thought-provoking (if grammatically questionable) central question, has resonated with audiences worldwide.
The song’s enduring popularity proves that sometimes, the most talked-about and even “weirdest” lyrics can become the most memorable. The controversy surrounding “are we human or are we dancer lyrics” has arguably contributed to the song’s mystique and longevity, ensuring its place as a key track in The Killers’ discography and a continued conversation starter for music fans.
