Paradise

Khalid's song 'Paradise' delves into the human quest for an ideal state of happiness and fulfillment, often referred to as paradise. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone searching for this elusive state, closing their eyes and hoping to catch a fleeting high. The imagery of burning yet feeling alive suggests a paradoxical experience, where the pursuit of pleasure and happiness can be both exhilarating and destructive. The mention of 'chasing the northern lights' evokes a sense of wonder and beauty, but also something that is distant and hard to grasp.

The song also touches on the emotional struggles and societal pressures that come with this pursuit. The lines 'Don’t like watching your momma cry / You say you’d rather die / She says you’re wasting your life' highlight the conflict between personal desires and familial expectations. Khalid acknowledges that life doesn't stop for anyone, and that past mistakes and wrongs can't simply be erased by prayer or substances like 'Himalayan haze.' This suggests a deeper reflection on the futility of trying to escape one's problems through temporary fixes.

In the chorus, Khalid emphasizes that hate doesn't give and love doesn't rewind all the good times, implying that negative emotions and regrets can't change the past. Instead, he advocates for living in the moment and not overthinking, as seen in the lines 'Give it up for nights like this / Don’t give into overthinking / Pour a drink when it ends.' The song ultimately serves as a reminder to cherish the present and find joy in the here and now, rather than constantly chasing an unattainable paradise.