Skinwalker

Artificial Language's song 'Skinwalker' delves into the complex themes of autonomy, divinity, and the human struggle for control over one's destiny. The lyrics open with a reference to a 'Mother' who knows best for the 'bringer of worlds,' suggesting a higher power or guiding force that influences the protagonist's path. This sets the stage for a narrative about the tension between predestined paths and the desire for self-determination. The imagery of a 'vortex of spells' pulling the protagonist in further emphasizes the struggle against forces beyond one's control.

The chorus, with its powerful command to 'Rise my sea' and 'Clench fists with air as if it's the throat of your God,' speaks to a rebellion against these controlling forces. The protagonist is urged to reject deities who do not reveal themselves, symbolizing a broader rejection of blind faith and the search for tangible, self-chosen paths. The line 'And now the fountain of life runs dry' suggests a loss of vitality or purpose when one relies on unseen, unresponsive gods. This is contrasted with the slow, deliberate grind of the mill, symbolizing a more grounded, self-determined approach to life.

The repeated question 'Will you choose our messiah?' highlights the theme of choice and the search for a new, more relatable form of divinity. The 'tin gods' that 'descend all the same' represent false idols or superficial deities that are easily manipulated. The 'tethers fashioned from silk' symbolize the delicate yet divisive nature of these false beliefs, separating individuals from their true potential. Ultimately, 'Skinwalker' is a call to reject imposed divinities and to seek out or create one's own path, embracing autonomy and self-determination in the face of external pressures.