The World

Empire Of The Sun's song 'The World' delves into profound existential questions, exploring the origins and trajectory of humanity. The lyrics open with the narrator asking the world when it began and what went wrong, suggesting a deep curiosity about the inception and subsequent missteps of human existence. This sets the stage for a reflective journey, where the singer's 'singing cells' symbolize the inherent power and potential within each individual, likened to an army ready to confront the world's challenges.

The chorus highlights a struggle for control and understanding, with the world seemingly manipulating time and the narrator's mind. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the overwhelming nature of modern life, where individuals often feel lost and manipulated by external forces. The repetition of 'without with without you' underscores a sense of confusion and disorientation, further emphasizing the difficulty of navigating life's complexities.

The song also touches on themes of creation and destruction, with lines like 'No mothers and fathers to make us anymore' and 'Billions and billions of lights and hearts befalling to embers through to coal.' These lyrics paint a picture of a world in decline, where traditional sources of life and guidance are absent, leading to a sense of loss and decay. The imagery of transformation from dust to wind to desert to death evokes a cycle of life and death, suggesting that despite the challenges, there is a natural progression that humanity must accept and navigate.

Ultimately, 'The World' by Empire Of The Sun is a thought-provoking exploration of human existence, questioning our origins, the forces that shape our lives, and the inevitable cycle of creation and destruction. It invites listeners to reflect on their place in the world and the broader narrative of humanity's journey.