Different Pulses

Asaf Avidan's song 'Different Pulses' delves into the complexities of emotional pain and the search for connection. The opening lines, 'My life is like a wound, I scratch so I can bleed,' set a tone of self-inflicted suffering. Avidan uses vivid imagery to describe his internal struggles, likening his life to a wound that he continuously aggravates. This metaphor extends to his creative process, where he 'regurgitates' his words to sustain himself, suggesting that his art is both a source of nourishment and a manifestation of his pain. The tree of death growing in his chest symbolizes the ever-present nature of his despair, with its roots at his feet, indicating that this sorrow is deeply ingrained and inescapable.

The chorus introduces a glimmer of hope as Avidan expresses a desire to 'sync our different pulses into a blinding light.' This line suggests a longing for unity and harmony, despite the inherent differences between individuals. The metaphor of pushing colors through a prism to achieve white light represents the effort to reconcile these differences and find a common ground. However, Avidan also acknowledges the uncertainty of love as a solution, pondering whether it is indeed the key to overcoming his struggles. This uncertainty is a poignant reflection of the human condition, where love is often seen as a panacea, yet its efficacy remains in question.

In the final verse, Avidan explores the idea of unspoken questions and answers that lie within the heart. He believes that his partner holds the answer to a question he has not yet formulated, indicating a deep, intuitive connection. The imagery of the tree drinking his tears suggests that his sorrow has been absorbed by this metaphorical tree, preventing him from fully expressing his grief. This line underscores the theme of suppressed emotions and the passage of time marked by unvoiced pain. Ultimately, 'Different Pulses' is a haunting exploration of inner turmoil, the quest for understanding, and the hope for emotional resonance with another person.