Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say)
Jesus Christ Superstar
The Agony of Choice: A Deep Dive into 'Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say)'
The song 'Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say)' is a powerful and emotional piece from the rock opera 'Jesus Christ Superstar,' which was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. The song is sung from the perspective of Jesus during the night before his crucifixion, as he prays in the Garden of Gethsemane. It is a moment of profound internal struggle, where Jesus grapples with his destiny and the immense suffering that lies ahead.
The lyrics express Jesus' human side, revealing his doubts and fears. He pleads for another way to fulfill his mission without undergoing the agony he anticipates. The repeated phrase 'I'd have to know, I'd have to know, my Lord' underscores his quest for understanding the purpose behind his impending sacrifice. Despite his divine nature, Jesus is portrayed as relatable, experiencing emotions that resonate with the human condition: fear, uncertainty, and the desire for his life and death to have meaning.
As the song progresses, Jesus' resolve strengthens. He accepts his fate, asking for strength to endure the suffering. The line 'Nail me to your cross and break me' signifies his ultimate submission to God's will, despite the cost. This moment of acceptance is both tragic and heroic, as it encapsulates the essence of sacrifice and the weight of responsibility that comes with it.