Lotus

R.E.M.'s song 'Lotus' is a complex and metaphorical exploration of self-discovery, transformation, and the human condition. The lyrics are rich with imagery and references that invite listeners to delve deeper into their meanings. The repeated phrase 'I ate the lotus' is a direct allusion to the Greek myth of the Lotus-Eaters, where consuming the lotus flower causes one to forget their past and become blissfully detached from reality. This metaphor suggests a desire to escape from the burdens of life and find a sense of peace or happiness, even if it means losing touch with reality.

The song's opening lines, 'I was hell, sarcastic silver swell,' set a tone of inner turmoil and conflict. The narrator describes a transformation from a state of distress ('I was hell') to a more reflective and perhaps resigned state ('sarcastic silver swell'). The imagery of rain and the ocean throughout the song symbolizes cleansing and renewal, as the narrator seeks to wash away their 'ugly sins' and find happiness again. The line 'let it rain, rain, rain, bring my happy back again' underscores this longing for emotional rebirth and redemption.

The lyrics also touch on themes of identity and self-perception. The narrator reflects on their past ('just last week I was merely heck') and the changes they have undergone ('picked me up, then I fell'). The mention of a 'stranger' with a 'crowbar spine' suggests a sense of alienation and disconnection from one's former self. Despite these struggles, the narrator finds solace in the act of consuming the lotus, which brings a temporary sense of happiness and relief. This duality of seeking escape while grappling with one's inner demons is a central theme in 'Lotus,' making it a poignant and thought-provoking piece.