New Gods

Grimes' song 'New Gods' delves into the existential struggle of seeking meaning and salvation in a chaotic world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the overwhelming brightness of reality, symbolized by 'broken glass that shines like Northern Lights.' This imagery suggests a world that is both beautiful and painfully fractured. The protagonist's plea for clarity and guidance is met with the harsh reality that the world is burning, and their personal needs are left unmet. This dichotomy between personal desire and global turmoil sets the stage for the song's exploration of faith and disillusionment.

The recurring question, 'Are you a man? Are you something I can't stand?' reflects a deep uncertainty about the nature of the divine or the higher power the protagonist is reaching out to. This uncertainty is compounded by the realization that the current gods or belief systems are insufficient, leading to a desperate search for 'new gods.' The hands reaching out symbolize a collective yearning for something greater, something that can provide the answers and solace that the current world cannot offer. This search for new gods can be seen as a metaphor for the quest for new ideologies, leaders, or even personal transformations that can bring about change and hope.

Grimes' use of dark imagery, such as 'black eyeliner, black attire,' contrasts with the desire to be taken 'higher and higher,' highlighting the tension between despair and the aspiration for transcendence. The repeated line, 'Only brand new gods can save me,' underscores the song's central theme: the need for a radical shift in belief or perspective to navigate a world that feels increasingly hopeless. This song resonates with the contemporary zeitgeist, where many feel disillusioned with traditional structures and are searching for new ways to find meaning and salvation in a rapidly changing world.