BE yourself?(audislave)?

Question

can anyone help me interpret the lyrics the Be yourself by Audioslave or like an explanation of the overall theme of the song?

Answer 1

The lyrics were inspired by events from frontman Chris Cornell's own life. "The 'be yourself' part really just came from a lot of things that I've gone through in my life and a lot of different changes and all the different tragedies and all the horrendously stupid mistakes I've made in my personal life, and wanting to be able to make up for those things and wanting to be able to not be ashamed, all that stuff," he explained. "You know, that's the one thing about getting older that's better, and this song kinda says it so simply, to a degree that 10 years ago I would've been embarrassed to put it in a song 'cause it is so simple. But there it is."

Answer 2

Examples of what different people do with the same things, thoughts, impulses. One person throws a bouquet of flower, another puts flowers on a grave.

I interpret it as there are many things people can do with any one thing, thought, idea, impulse, so be yourself and do what you think is best for yourself.

Don't lose any sleep over what you think other people are doing, just be yourself and do what you think is good for you.

Answer 3

i'm pretty sure the lyrics aren't too deep...be yourself is all that you can be, right?

but i think it also deals with themes of how different people deal with life, eg. "someone finds salvation in everyone, and others only pain [in being with everyone]". it's about how you deal with things in life different than anyone else because that's who you are.

Answer 4

Its talking about different types of people and telling you to be yourself. basically saying to be yourself and that theres nothing wrong with it. love the song.