“Believe (Unreleased)” by Justin Bieber crafts a narrative of individual resilience against adversity. The song conveys the theme of personal struggle and the feeling of being trapped, like standing in quicksand with no helping hands around. These lines suggest a scenario of solitude and despair where the subject must confront their issues alone. Yet, this lyricism also aims to describe the innate human strength buried underneath these feelings of hopelessness.
Through the lyrics, Bieber incorporates the motif of self-empowerment and nudges the subject of the song, and consequently, the listener, to not let their guard down, stay strong, and hold their head up. This may imply that while life may be unpredictable and challenging, strength and perseverance can be one’s saving grace.
The song also recognizes the feeling of stagnancy. This captures the essence of a person who feels stuck in their life’s journey, experiencing the same challenges repetitively without any signs of progress. However, the song counters this feeling by revealing there’s no limit to what one can do, suggesting that one should not be dissuaded by their circumstances and, instead, continue pushing through because potential and possibilities are limitless.
Lastly, the central message that culminates through the lyrics is the power of belief. This links back to its title; hence, the song suggests that the primary driving force behind any success or overcoming any hardship rests on believing in one’s self. As an embodiment of a motivational anthem, the song’s narrative asserts that belief is what eventually unfolds one’s hidden wings, allowing them to soar above the challenges they face.
Overall, “Believe” draws on the human condition of struggle, resilience, hope, and self-belief and applies these themes universally, aiming to resonate with listeners who may also be experiencing feelings of despair, stagnancy, or a lack of self-belief. The song’s narrative seeks to communicate that through resistance, inner strength, and unwavering belief in oneself, individuals can overcome adversity and realize their limitless potential.