Does anyone else see this song as an exploration of the metaphysical? I feel that James is trying to convey that its not the physical things in this life that contribute actual meaning, but rather those that are intangible. All the feelings that we experience through our senses are simply indications of the existence of something transcendent of the world in which we live. The experiences in which we are offered glimpses of these things are more meaningful, according to James, than the sum of their aesthetic value. In my opinion, when the song says, "None of this is physical, at least not to me... So, I do believe that anywhere it goes, it's always with me," is an expression of God's metaphysical omnipresence and power.
The very title of the song, to me, imparts that this world is powered by something beyond our senses. "Steam" being a reference to a "ghost" or metaphysical being that we cannot see, but whose presence we can feel, and "Engine" indicating it's driving force in our world, like God's omnipotent plan for all of us.
James tells others to "take your money and your drugs," he doesn't need them. The truth and peace that he experiences through his interaction with God offers him an abundant joy that these empty idols cannot touch. He has found meaning and value for his life in something beyond the pleasures and pursuits of our physical world.
James asks all who are still unsure of his feelings about God, (To anyone who wonders, what old Jebus (Jesus) meant to me...) to simply go to Red Patoka Sea, experience its beauty and magic, and their question will be answered. James had a personally meaningful experience here (your skin looks good in moonlight, and god damn those shaky knees), in the midst of its natural beauty, where he was weakened and humbled by his realization of God's glory. The song's thesis rests in that line, "To anyone who wonders, what old Jebus (Jesus) meant to me..." when placed in conjunction with "The fact that my hearts beating, is all the proof you need..." The inherent and miraculous beauty, complexity and mystery of life points to the reality of a higher power.
Finally, the song ends with the chanting of words that, on other sites, are listed as "I believe," but to me sound like some combination of the phrases "He bought it" or "He got 'em," referencing Jesus' salvation and love for sure. The music lifts the listener as James' chanting becomes reminiscent of a praise chorus, an overflow of emotion for his beautiful Creator.
Whether you agree with me or not, the emotion expressed and evoked by this song is truly a thing of beauty. Tell me what you think!
I've fumbled over these lyrics many of times and I think you've hit the nail in the head here. It all makes sense now, and now I have an even compassion for the song.
I've fumbled over these lyrics many of times and I think you've hit the nail in the head here. It all makes sense now, and now I have an even compassion for the song.
Does anyone else see this song as an exploration of the metaphysical? I feel that James is trying to convey that its not the physical things in this life that contribute actual meaning, but rather those that are intangible. All the feelings that we experience through our senses are simply indications of the existence of something transcendent of the world in which we live. The experiences in which we are offered glimpses of these things are more meaningful, according to James, than the sum of their aesthetic value. In my opinion, when the song says, "None of this is physical, at least not to me... So, I do believe that anywhere it goes, it's always with me," is an expression of God's metaphysical omnipresence and power.
The very title of the song, to me, imparts that this world is powered by something beyond our senses. "Steam" being a reference to a "ghost" or metaphysical being that we cannot see, but whose presence we can feel, and "Engine" indicating it's driving force in our world, like God's omnipotent plan for all of us.
James tells others to "take your money and your drugs," he doesn't need them. The truth and peace that he experiences through his interaction with God offers him an abundant joy that these empty idols cannot touch. He has found meaning and value for his life in something beyond the pleasures and pursuits of our physical world.
James asks all who are still unsure of his feelings about God, (To anyone who wonders, what old Jebus (Jesus) meant to me...) to simply go to Red Patoka Sea, experience its beauty and magic, and their question will be answered. James had a personally meaningful experience here (your skin looks good in moonlight, and god damn those shaky knees), in the midst of its natural beauty, where he was weakened and humbled by his realization of God's glory. The song's thesis rests in that line, "To anyone who wonders, what old Jebus (Jesus) meant to me..." when placed in conjunction with "The fact that my hearts beating, is all the proof you need..." The inherent and miraculous beauty, complexity and mystery of life points to the reality of a higher power.
Finally, the song ends with the chanting of words that, on other sites, are listed as "I believe," but to me sound like some combination of the phrases "He bought it" or "He got 'em," referencing Jesus' salvation and love for sure. The music lifts the listener as James' chanting becomes reminiscent of a praise chorus, an overflow of emotion for his beautiful Creator.
Whether you agree with me or not, the emotion expressed and evoked by this song is truly a thing of beauty. Tell me what you think!
I've fumbled over these lyrics many of times and I think you've hit the nail in the head here. It all makes sense now, and now I have an even compassion for the song.
I've fumbled over these lyrics many of times and I think you've hit the nail in the head here. It all makes sense now, and now I have an even compassion for the song.