Rush – Totem

"Totem" as written by Darren Ashley, Jeannie Lee and Ann Jo....
I've got twelve disciples and a Buddha smile
The Garden of Allah, Viking Valhalla
A miracle once in a while

I've got a pantheon of animals in a pagan soul
Vishnu and Gaea Aztec and Maya
Dance around my totem pole

I believe in what I see
I believe in what I hear
I believe that what I'm feeling
Changes how the world appears

Angels and demons dancing in my head
Lunatics and monsters underneath my bed
Media messiahs preying on my fears
Pop culture prophets playing in my ears

I've got celestial mechanics
To synchronize my stars
Seasonal migrations daily variations
World of the unlikely and bizarre

I've got idols and icons, unspoken holy vows
Thoughts to keep well-hidden
Sacred and forbidden
Free to browse among the holy cows

That's why I believe

Angels and demons inside of me
Saviors and Satan's all around me

Sweet chariot, swing low, coming for me


Lyrics submitted by Elquemataranas

"Totem" as written by Gary Lee Weinrib Neil Elwood Peart

Lyrics © OLE MEDIA MANAGEMENT LP

Lyrics powered by LyricFind

Totem song meanings
Add your thoughts

4 Comments

sort form View by:
  • +2
    General CommentAmong other things, it is about popular beliefs and religion, how aspects of it are used as tools by the media to make profit. There are so many differnt cultures, religions, and people whom all see the world different ways. You should believe in what you see, hear, and feel but make sure it is how YOU really feel and know not everyone will agree with you and see it the same way.
    edredon May 20, 2006   Link
  • +1
    General CommentI was raised Catholic and for many many years did not believe in a god at all due to circumstances in my own life. I have since come to believe that god is inside of each of us- for each to interpret for ourselves to its meaning. Our own feelings and choices make the world around us - not others feelings and choices. This song completely embodies and exemplifies my current beliefs in detail.
    To each of us their is a god- he just looks different to each of us.
    socket462on April 05, 2008   Link
  • 0
    General CommentI agree with both of you.
    To each his own...
    Don't conform...
    And don't be fascist either
    rushpwnsxon September 29, 2008   Link
  • 0
    General Commenti love this song !
    soo up beat and fun! :D
    geddyleerocksmysockson July 30, 2010   Link
    • 1 Reply

Add your thoughts

Log in now to tell us what you think this song means.

Don’t have an account? Create an account with SongMeanings to post comments, submit lyrics, and more. It’s super easy, we promise!

Back to top
explain