Released: 2017
Features: Coldplay
“Something Just Like This” by The Chainsmokers featuring Coldplay embodies the yearning for a simple, genuine connection over superficial ideals. Within these lyrics, the protagonist’s quest for love is grounded in reality and dismisses the grandeur of mythical heroes. The song wrestles with the societal pressures to pursue larger-than-life love stories and champions the value of a love that feels ‘human’ and attainable.
The opening verses of this tune dive headfirst into references of mythical and superhero tales – Achilles and his gold, Hercules and his gifts, Spider-Man’s control, Batman with his fists; encapsulating the high pedestal on which society often places love and relationships. The mention of these figures represents a gold standard of sorts, a heroic, larger-than-life image that one might feel pressured to live up to in a relationship. However, the protagonist here admits, “clearly, I don’t see myself upon that list,” punctuating the feeling of inadequacy and the impossibility of meeting these unrealistic ideals.
Moving on, the song’s chorus delivers a defining sentiment. In response to the idealized notions of love, the woman states, “I’m not looking for somebody with some superhuman gifts, some superhero, some fairy tale bliss.” This statement rejects the expectation of finding a grand, larger-than-life love and instead seeks simplicity – “Just something I can turn to, somebody I can kiss.” This is a poignant reflection of the yearning for a human, intimate connection that doesn’t need the veneer of heroic grandeur for validation.
The second verse echoes the sentiments of the first, again delving into mythical references – this time referencing the moon and its eclipse and Superman. Again, the protagonist declares, “But I’m not the kind of person that it fits,” underscoring the relatability of not fitting into any ‘superhero’ mould.
Throughout the song, the lyrics are punctuated with repetitive “Doo-doo-doo, doo-doo-doo,” a soothing, melodic interlude that creates a comfortable rhythm. This might imply the continuous, flowing nature of regular love, which doesn’t need climactic peaks to be genuinely enjoyable and fulfilling.
Overall, “Something Just Like This” navigates the complexities of love and relationships in a modern context, bouncing against the notion of needing to be extraordinary or superhuman to find meaningful connections. The song is an ode to the beauty of simplicity, a candid discourse on the essence of genuine romance, and a stark reminder that we need not be superheroes to find, feel, and foster love.
