The Meaning Behind The Song: Out Here On My Own by Irene Cara
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out Here On My Own | Irene Cara | Lesley Gore & Michael Gore | Fame: 1980 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) | 1980 | Pop | Michael Gore |
Out Here On My Own was sung by Irene Cara, who portrayed Coco Hernandez in “Fame.” The song peaked at #19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and also peaked at #20 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart. It was nominated for the Oscar for Best Original Song, but lost to its movie’s theme song.
The Meaning of “Out Here On My Own”
When I first heard “Out Here On My Own” by Irene Cara, it resonated deeply with me. The lyrics capture the feeling of being alone and trying to find your place in the world. It’s a song that speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost or misunderstood.
In the first verse, Cara sings, “Sometimes I wonder where I’ve been, Who I am, Do I fit in? Make believing is hard alone, Out here on my own.” These lines express the internal struggle of questioning one’s identity and feeling isolated. It’s a sentiment that many of us can relate to at some point in our lives.
The second verse continues to explore the theme of self-discovery and striving for success. “We’re always proving who we are, Always reaching for that rising star, To guide me far, And shine me home, Out here on my own.” Here, the lyrics emphasize the constant pressure to prove oneself and the desire to find guidance and support along the way.
The chorus of the song is particularly powerful as it speaks to the emotional resilience needed when facing challenges. “When I’m down and feeling blue, I close my eyes so I can be with you, Oh, baby, be strong for me, Baby, belong to me, Help me through, Help me need you.” These lines convey a sense of longing for strength and companionship during difficult times.
The third verse offers a glimmer of hope, as Cara sings, “Until the morning sun appears, Making light of all my fears, I dry the tears, I’ve never shown, Out here on my own.” This signifies a turning point in the song, where the protagonist finds the strength to face their fears and move forward, ready to conquer the challenges that lie ahead.
The song’s message is universal and timeless. It reminds us that even when we feel alone, there is a strength within us to overcome obstacles and forge our own path. It’s a reminder to believe in ourselves and that we are not truly alone.
Personal Connection to “Out Here On My Own”
Listening to “Out Here On My Own” takes me back to a specific moment in my life when I was going through a period of self-doubt and uncertainty. I had just graduated from college and was embarking on a new chapter in my life, but I was plagued with the fear of not being good enough or finding my place in the world.
During that time, I would often listen to this song on repeat. The lyrics spoke directly to the emotions I was experiencing, and it became a source of comfort and inspiration. The song served as a reminder that I wasn’t alone in my struggles and that there was strength within me to navigate through the uncertainties of life.
Years later, whenever I hear “Out Here On My Own,” it takes me back to that transformative period. It serves as a reminder of the growth and resilience I gained during that time and how it shaped the person I am today.
In conclusion, “Out Here On My Own” by Irene Cara is a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever felt lost or alone. Its lyrics capture the essence of self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of believing in oneself. The song’s timeless message continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us that we have the strength to overcome obstacles and find our place in the world, even when we feel like we’re out here on our own.
