Exploring the Mystical Nostalgia in 'Tezeta' by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
The song 'Tezeta' by King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard delves into themes of memory, transformation, and existential reflection. The word 'Tezeta' itself is an Amharic term that translates to 'nostalgia' or 'longing,' setting the tone for the song's exploration of past experiences and their impact on the present. The repetition of 'Tezeta' in the lyrics emphasizes the cyclical nature of memory and the persistent pull of the past on one's consciousness.
The lyrics suggest a journey of self-discovery and transformation. The lines 'If I've been insane / My whole life well now I've changed / Into something that sees' indicate a shift from a state of confusion or madness to one of clarity and understanding. This transformation is further illustrated through metaphors like 'Shape shifting ceiling' and 'My mental projection is pink,' which evoke a sense of altered perception and new ways of seeing the world. The song's protagonist seems to be grappling with their identity and the nature of reality, as seen in the lines 'Who are you? / I am true perspective' and 'Are you God? / I am that which I am.' These exchanges suggest a search for deeper truths and a connection to something greater than oneself.
The song also touches on existential themes, questioning the nature of reality and existence. The line 'Everything that lives and dies / Is a hologram / Nothing is as real as that' suggests a view of life as an illusion or a projection, challenging the listener to reconsider their understanding of what is real. This idea is reinforced by the closing lines, 'Do you remember now? / What? (Yes, I do!) / This; my altered plan,' which imply a revelation or an awakening to a new perspective. 'Tezeta' invites listeners to reflect on their own memories, transformations, and the nature of their existence, making it a thought-provoking and introspective piece.