So this has been.my favorite song of OTEP's since it came out in 2004, and I always thought it was a song about a child's narrative of suffering in an abusive Christian home. But now that I am revisiting the lyrics, I am seeing something totally new.
This song could be gospel of John but from the perspective of Jesus.
Jesus was NOT having a good time up to and during the crucifixion. Everyone in the known world at the time looked to him with fear, admiration or disgust and he was constantly being asked questions. He spoke in "verses, prophesies and curses". He had made an enemy of the state, and believed the world was increasingly wicked and fallen from grace, or that he was in the "mouth of madness".
The spine of atlas is the structure that allows the titan to hold the world up. Jesus challenged the state and in doing so became a celebrated resistance figure. It also made him public enemy #1.
All of this happened simply because he was doing his thing, not because of any agenda he had or strategy.
And then he gets scourged (storm of thorns)
There are some plot holes here but I think it's an interesting interpretation.
I want to whisper something in your ear
This train's not stopping but you don't have to fear
One destination; do you know where it ends?
You've bought the ticket but so what...?
This is not science fiction, baby; here's the deal:
Good fights evil every day, it's for real
You're going somewhere no matter what you believe
I'd check my map if I were you
[Chorus]
You'll feel a little strange but - it's alright
Everything could turn around tonight
Baby let me turn on the lights
You will see for miles and miles - it's alright, alright
One thing after another, that's the way that it goes
You ride the consequences of the journey you chose
I'm just like you but I know which way is up
It comes with a guarantee for life
[Chorus]
And if you find you're sitting in the Anxious Seat
And everything that you've become is incomplete
Stretch out your hand, come on now, get up on your feet
Your tide is turning
[Chorus]
This train's not stopping but you don't have to fear
One destination; do you know where it ends?
You've bought the ticket but so what...?
This is not science fiction, baby; here's the deal:
Good fights evil every day, it's for real
You're going somewhere no matter what you believe
I'd check my map if I were you
[Chorus]
You'll feel a little strange but - it's alright
Everything could turn around tonight
Baby let me turn on the lights
You will see for miles and miles - it's alright, alright
One thing after another, that's the way that it goes
You ride the consequences of the journey you chose
I'm just like you but I know which way is up
It comes with a guarantee for life
[Chorus]
And if you find you're sitting in the Anxious Seat
And everything that you've become is incomplete
Stretch out your hand, come on now, get up on your feet
Your tide is turning
[Chorus]
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
Anxious Seat Lyrics as written by
Lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing
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