Note that a precursor and possible inspiration to the beginning of this song was the short story called ‘Night Journey’ by John Barth, aligning with the interpretation by tmzw…
Also, the very last line of the song came under heavy criticism in the early days of the internet in a discussion of prog lyrics. (rec.music.progressive). Considered pretentious. On the contrary, it can be seen as a late 60s interest in reincarnation via hinduism, and it is also a statement on biology. All life requires a prior death for energy, or viewed more optimistically, all death transforms into anothers life . Death is life.
Weird coincidence with the war in the country of the mentioned Gates, I heard a Ukrainian soldier use the exact phrase ‘death is life’ to describe their motivation to fight and sacrifice if needed. In this case, the life means the life of their country and fellow citizens. I doubt the soldier ever heard the 50-year old song, but you never know.
Note that a precursor and possible inspiration to the beginning of this song was the short story called ‘Night Journey’ by John Barth, aligning with the interpretation by tmzw…
Also, the very last line of the song came under heavy criticism in the early days of the internet in a discussion of prog lyrics. (rec.music.progressive). Considered pretentious. On the contrary, it can be seen as a late 60s interest in reincarnation via hinduism, and it is also a statement on biology. All life requires a prior death for energy, or viewed more optimistically, all death transforms into anothers life . Death is life.
Weird coincidence with the war in the country of the mentioned Gates, I heard a Ukrainian soldier use the exact phrase ‘death is life’ to describe their motivation to fight and sacrifice if needed. In this case, the life means the life of their country and fellow citizens. I doubt the soldier ever heard the 50-year old song, but you never know.