Fear Inoculum Lyrics

Lyric discussion by scarfdays 

Cover art for Fear Inoculum  lyrics by Tool

To me this song represents growing out of a limiting belief that shaped the character's reality for a long time. They're finally able to see through the delusion and hence, gain immunity to it.

Although the delusion has a negative connotation throughout the song, the necessity of it is recognized in these verses:

"Enumerate All that I'm to do Calculating steps away from you My own Mitosis Growing through Delusion from mania"

The liberation from the delusion opens up opportunities for new experiences and a new, broader perspective; ability to plan and reach beyond the old self. However, the delusion is recognized as the very catalyst for growth. Every achievement ever made was realized out of a desire fueled by the lack of that which was realized in the end. Immunity cannot be achieved without exposure.

My Interpretation