All The Tears

Gojira's song 'All The Tears' delves deep into the existential journey of life, exploring themes of growth, struggle, and the inevitable confrontation with mortality. The lyrics begin with a poignant image of a mother who, despite her lack of time, deeply cares for her child, shedding tears that symbolize the emotional weight of nurturing and protection. This sets the stage for the protagonist's journey, who, at just three days old, is thrust into the river flow of life, symbolizing the beginning of his personal odyssey.

As the song progresses, the protagonist faces the daunting task of becoming a man, a metaphor for the challenges and responsibilities that come with maturity. The imagery of the wind and waves represents the external pressures and fears that one must confront. The protagonist's admission of fear and unpreparedness is a universal sentiment, reflecting the vulnerability and uncertainty that accompany life's trials. Despite this, there is a resolve to be strong, even as he cries all the tears, acknowledging the emotional toll of these experiences.

The latter part of the song introduces a sense of enlightenment and acceptance. The 'electric sword' and the burning life symbolize a transformative, almost purgatorial experience, where the protagonist grapples with the illusions of life but holds onto the dream of a better time. The 'secret knowledge' and 'treasured icons' suggest a deeper understanding and appreciation of life's precious moments and lessons. As the protagonist prepares to leave this world, there is a sense of peace and resolution. The river flow, which once symbolized the start of his journey, now represents the continuity of life and the interconnectedness of all beings. The final acceptance of death, without tears, signifies a profound reconciliation with the cycle of life and the inevitability of its end.