Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: singer-songwriter
Song Meaning of “Guardian” by Alanis Morissette
‘Guardian’ is a song about embracing inner strength and self-love in the face of tumultuous times. It’s a reminder to stand strong and be present in the moment, no matter what life throws your way. Through Alanis’ inspirational lyrics, she encourages us to be a protector of ourselves and to trust in our own abilities to get by.
The opening verse paints a vivid picture of civil unrest and trying times, urging us to take advantage of the present moment: “Rise up like a flame, brought to the front line, just to take back the time that is now ours.” In an effort to offer resilience, she calls out: “Come on brave ones, stand where you’re needed! Now take it up higher than you’ve ever dreamed!”
As she continues to sing, Alanis laments the hard times and difficult moments that can occur within life; “It’s true our strength can be tested, our manifesto questioned, our sense of will diminished to near nothing.” But she asserts that in those moments – no matter how hard things may be – our inner strength is what will grant us the ability to keep going, “That’s when you must be the guardian of your own heart.”
Ultimately, ‘Guardian’ is a rallying cry to stay brave and remain connected to our resilience, whatever challenges we may face.