The Old Therebefore / Singing at the Snakes

Rachel Zegler's 'The Old Therebefore / Singing at the Snakes' is a poignant exploration of life's final stages and the emotional and existential preparations for the afterlife. The song's lyrics are imbued with a sense of reflection and resolution, as the narrator contemplates the tasks and experiences that must be completed before transitioning to the 'sweet old hereafter.' The phrase 'The old therebefore' serves as a metaphor for the current life, a space where unfinished business and lingering emotions must be addressed before one can move on to the next realm.

The song's verses detail a series of personal milestones and emotional reckonings that the narrator must achieve. Lines like 'When I've paid all my debts / When I have no regrets' and 'When I've cried all my tears / When I've conquered my fears' suggest a deep introspection and a desire to leave no loose ends. This journey is not just about physical actions but also about emotional and spiritual cleansing. The repeated refrain 'When nothing is left anymore' underscores the idea of reaching a state of complete resolution and peace.

Rachel Zegler's soulful delivery adds a layer of vulnerability and sincerity to the song, making it a heartfelt meditation on mortality and the human condition. The imagery of 'dancing off my shoes' and 'tallied the score' evokes a sense of finality and acceptance, as if the narrator is preparing for a final performance before taking a bow. The song ultimately speaks to the universal human experience of seeking closure and meaning in the face of life's inevitable end, making it a deeply resonant and thought-provoking piece.