"Heart Like a Wheel" is a song by the British synth-pop band The Human League, released in 1987. The lyrics of the song convey a sense of disillusionment and critique towards societal and global issues. The song begins by mentioning Johnny Seven, who is depicted as a figure from the promised land, potentially representing hope and change. However, his influence seems to limit personal freedom and consume time. The lyrics question whether individuals will remain cool and unaffected when faced with challenging situations. The next verse suggests that there is a need for help, possibly in finding a fulfilling career. The lyrics suggest that maintaining a cool demeanor and staying unaffected by the events happening around is crucial. The chorus, "Heart like a wheel, turning away from anything that's real," implies a sense of detachment or avoidance of reality. It suggests that individuals may not want to confront the truth or face the harsh realities of life. The mention of "beating colder steel" could refer to becoming emotionally distant or guarded. The song then criticizes the media's dwindling impact, suggesting that power lies elsewhere and may resort to force. It questions the validity and effectiveness of selling one's beliefs for a holy war or the promise of freedom. The lyrics imply that promises are no longer trusted, as they might be misleading. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea of turning away from reality and the increasing coldness. The lyrics criticize the use of violence and weaponry to solve problems, highlighting the flaws in armed conflict and the inability to build genuine relationships. In the final verse, the song implies that the wheels of progress and change cannot keep turning if fueled by anger, blood, and fear. The lyrics emphasize that the use of violence, like an M16 rifle, can alienate individuals and hinder meaningful connections. The line "blast your way through here" suggests a destructive approach instead of peaceful coexistence. Overall, "Heart Like a Wheel" portrays a critical perspective on societal issues, questioning the effectiveness of violence, the media, and broken promises. It urges individuals to confront reality and seek alternatives to conflict in order to create genuine connections with others.
