Natural

Will you hold the line When every one of them has given up and given in? Tell me In this house of mine Nothing ever comes without a consequence or cost, tell me Will the stars align? Will heaven step in? Will it save us from our sin, will it? 'Cause this house of mine stands strong That's the price you pay Leave behind your heart and cast away Just another product of today Rather be the hunter than the prey And you're standing on the edge, face up 'Cause you're a natural A beating heart of stone You gotta be so cold To make it in this world Yeah, you're a natural Living your life cutthroat You gotta be so cold Yeah, you're a natural Will somebody Let me see the light within the dark trees shadowing? What's happening? Looking through the glass, find the wrong within the past knowing Oh, we are the youth Cut until it bleeds inside a world without the peace, face it A bit of the truth, the truth That's the price you pay Leave behind your heart and cast away Just another product of today Rather be the hunter than the prey And you're standing on the edge, face up 'Cause you're a natural A beating heart of stone You gotta be so cold To make it in this world Yeah, you're a natural Living your life cutthroat You gotta be so cold Yeah, you're a natural Deep inside me, I'm fading to black, I'm fading Took an oath by the blood on my hand, won't break it I can taste it, the end is upon us, I swear Gonna make it I'm gonna make it Natural A beating heart of stone You gotta be so cold To make it in this world Yeah, you're a natural Living your life cutthroat You gotta be so cold Yeah, you're a natural Natural Yeah, you're a natural

Composer: Benjamin Arthur Mckee / Daniel Coulter Reynolds / Daniel Wayne Sermon / Mattias Per Larsson / Robin Lennart Fredriksson / Daniel James Platzman / Justin Drew Tranter

In-depth Analysis of 'Natural' by Imagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons' "Natural" is a powerful anthem that delves into the raw, often brutal, instincts required for survival and success in a competitive world. The song explores themes of resilience, the moral compromises one might make, and the cold-hearted determination needed to overcome adversity. It questions whether maintaining one's integrity is possible when everyone else has "given up and given in," suggesting a cynical view of modern society.

Central Themes Explored:

Survival of the Fittest: The repeated line "Rather be the hunter than the prey" encapsulates the song's core message about the necessity of being aggressive and dominant to avoid being victimized. This reflects a cutthroat environment where only the strongest endure.
Loss of Empathy/Humanity: Phrases like "A beating heart of stone" and "You gotta be so cold to make it in this world" highlight the emotional detachment and ruthlessness that success often demands. The lyrics lament the fading of inner light, hinting at the personal cost of adopting such a hardened persona.
Societal Pressure & Conformity: The song touches upon the idea of being "just another product of today," suggesting that the harsh realities are not isolated incidents but a systemic pressure to conform to a demanding, unforgiving environment.

Emotional Tone and Atmosphere:

"Natural" carries a heavy, intense, and somewhat somber tone, fueled by powerful percussion and Dan Reynolds' emotive vocals. It evokes a sense of struggle, inner conflict, and a grim determination. Despite the darkness, there's an underlying defiance and resolve to "make it," even if it means sacrificing a part of oneself. The track serves as a stark reflection on the true nature of ambition and perseverance in a world devoid of peace.

Q&A & Fun Facts: 'Natural' by Imagine Dragons

What is the main message of 'Natural'?

'Natural' by Imagine Dragons explores the theme of ruthless survival and the sacrifices one must make to succeed in a competitive and often unforgiving world. It suggests that a certain 'coldness' or resilience is 'natural' for navigating modern life, emphasizing the "hunter vs. prey" mentality.

What does "A beating heart of stone" mean in the song?

This phrase symbolizes the emotional hardening and detachment required to navigate a harsh environment. It suggests suppressing empathy and vulnerability to become strong and resilient, making one immune to emotional pain or external pressures.

Why does the song say "Rather be the hunter than the prey"?

This line encapsulates the song's core message about survival of the fittest. It signifies a preference for being in control, powerful, and proactive in life's challenges, rather than being a victim or passively subjected to others' actions or societal pressures.

Fun Facts:

'Natural' was released in 2018 as the lead single from Imagine Dragons' fourth studio album, 'Origins'.
The song was notably used as the anthem for ESPN's 2018 college football season, highlighting its theme of fierce competition and determination.
The music video for 'Natural' features a gothic, macabre aesthetic, with Dan Reynolds burying band members, further emphasizing themes of death, rebirth, and dark survival.