Original Of The Species

U2's 'Original Of The Species' is a song that seems to delve into the complexities of growth and the preservation of innocence. The opening lines, 'Baby, slow down / The end is not as fun as the start / Please stay a child somewhere in your heart,' suggest a plea to maintain a sense of childlike wonder and purity despite the inevitable process of maturing. This theme is a common thread in U2's music, which often explores human emotions and experiences with a poetic touch.

The lyrics 'I'll give you everything you want / Except the thing that you want' could be interpreted as the paradox of desire and fulfillment. It reflects the idea that sometimes what we think we want isn't truly what we need, and that often, the most important things can't be given by someone else—they must be found within. The song also touches on the idea of individuality with the line 'You are the first one of your kind,' emphasizing the uniqueness of the person being addressed and perhaps speaking to the broader human condition of seeking our own identity.

The song also contains a critique of becoming too accustomed to certain behaviors or societal norms, as seen in the lines 'Some things you shouldn't get too good at / Like smiling, crying and celebrity.' This suggests a warning against the superficiality that can come with fame and the performance of emotions, urging authenticity over pretense. Overall, 'Original Of The Species' is a rich tapestry of encouragement, individuality, and a call to remain true to oneself amidst the pressures of growing up and societal expectations.