The song is widely regarded as an anthem of vulnerability and longing for authentic connection. Key themes include:
: The lyrics were written from the perspective of Nicolas Cage’s character in City of Angels , an immortal angel willing to sacrifice his divinity to experience human love. Goo goo dolls - Iris (Audio)
: Frontman John Rzeznik wrote the track while living in a hotel in Los Angeles, grappling with writer's block and the recent collapse of his marriage. The song is widely regarded as an anthem