Feel The Zeal
Official Dogma
The Paradox of Pain and Zeal in 'Feel The Zeal'
Official Dogma's song 'Feel The Zeal' delves into the complex and often paradoxical relationship between strict upbringing, punishment, and the emotional responses they evoke. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is subjected to a rigid and punitive environment, likely within a religious or highly disciplined setting, as suggested by the mention of 'convents.' The strict rules and the constant threat of punishment create a backdrop of suffering and control.
Despite the oppressive atmosphere, the protagonist experiences a conflicting sense of arousal and vitality from the very acts of punishment and the frantic behavior of their parents. The repeated phrase 'I feel the zeal' underscores this paradox, where the pain and strictness, rather than solely being sources of distress, also become sources of intense emotional and physical sensation. This duality is further emphasized by the lines 'That noise arouses me, human I feel,' suggesting that the protagonist's sense of humanity and aliveness is intertwined with their experiences of suffering and punishment.
The song's exploration of these themes can be seen as a commentary on the complexities of human emotions and the ways in which individuals can derive a sense of identity and feeling from even the most adverse circumstances. The repeated calls for punishment and the excitement it brings highlight a deeper psychological and perhaps even masochistic element, where pain and pleasure are inextricably linked. 'Feel The Zeal' challenges listeners to consider the multifaceted nature of human experiences and the often contradictory ways in which we respond to the world around us.