THE EGO OF HUMAN HANDS Lyrics – Adam Paddock

THE EGO OF HUMAN HANDS Lyrics Meaning

In the first verse, the artist talks about painting a picture in the sky, symbolizing an aspiration to create something grand and extraordinary. He imagines not looking back at those still on the ground, but he knows they would be watching, inspired by his success. It’s like people admiring someone who has achieved their dreams and wanting to reach that level themselves. Yet, there’s a hint of self-awareness, acknowledging that others may strive to do the same, hoping to achieve what he has.

The next verse dives deeper into the artist’s vulnerability. He expresses the desire to pour his heart out through a song, letting it grow and impact the world. However, there’s this lingering thought that even if he puts all his passion into it, someone else might be able to do it better. This speaks to the insecurity that many creative people feel, always comparing themselves to others. The “ego of human hands” phrase reflects this self-doubt, suggesting that the need to outdo others is a part of human nature.

The third verse explores the fear of being exposed. The artist imagines being stripped of all pretenses, left alone with his raw self. This idea of being “tied down to the core” is terrifying because it involves confronting one’s most vulnerable parts, without any protective layers. He connects this feeling to the cost of making art, explaining that art mirrors the emotions of its creator. It “cries when you cry,” meaning that it absorbs the pain, joy, and everything in between. So, when the artist feels deeply about their work, those tears are proof of the beauty behind their creation.

In the following verse, the artist describes sculpting a rock, symbolizing the effort to bring something hidden into the world. But despite this hard work and the meaning behind it, there’s always someone who will criticize, saying they never liked the medium used (clay in this case). This is a common experience for artists—pouring everything into something, only for it to be met with indifference or criticism.

The next section shows the artist burning out emotionally over writing prose or poetry, influenced by famous poets like Whitman and Frost. But once again, he circles back to the thought that if someone else had the chance, they might have done it better. The “ego of human hands” returns, representing that constant comparison and the battle with self-doubt.

In the repeating lines, the artist acknowledges that even though he can figure things out and make his art presentable, he’s still just human. The pressure to take the safest route, rather than taking risks, shows how often people hide their struggles because no one really asks how they manage to find solutions. It highlights the disconnect between the external appearance of success and the internal reality of personal battles.

The final repetition of being “tied down to my core” reflects the ongoing fear of vulnerability. But the artist comes to terms with the idea that even in moments of doubt and tears, there’s beauty to be found in that raw honesty.