Meeting (Garden Of Geda)

Jon Anderson's 'Meeting (Garden Of Geda)' is a lyrical voyage that transcends the physical realm, inviting listeners to embark on a metaphysical journey. The song's narrative is rich with imagery and metaphors, painting a picture of a grand expedition aboard a galleon. This vessel symbolizes a quest for knowledge, enlightenment, and unity, as it 'travels to cross' and 'closes the space between pastures.' The journey is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and emotional odyssey, seeking to bridge gaps and attain a higher understanding.

The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection, as seen in lines like 'Climb summer mornings and tell me of days past.' This suggests a longing to connect with the past and learn from it, while also celebrating the 'praises of love.' The recurring motif of a 'hand raised high in the dark' symbolizes hope, guidance, and the quest for answers in uncertain times. The song's characters, such as Olias and Qoquaq, serve as guides and protectors, leading the way and ensuring the safety of the travelers.

Anderson's use of fantastical elements, such as 'mastered volcano erupt with the pleasure' and 'clasped with the skins of the fish of the plain,' adds a mythical quality to the song. These vivid images create a sense of wonder and adventure, emphasizing the transformative power of the journey. The song's chorus, with its nonsensical yet rhythmic phrases, adds to the mystical atmosphere, suggesting a universal language that transcends conventional understanding. Ultimately, 'Meeting (Garden Of Geda)' is a celebration of exploration, unity, and the eternal quest for meaning and connection in a vast, mysterious universe.