Cornucopia

Serj Tankian's song 'Cornucopia' is a poignant and thought-provoking piece that delves into the complex relationship between humanity and the Earth. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of both love and destruction. The recurring line 'I loved you in the sunshine' suggests a deep affection, possibly for the Earth or a person, while 'You chase the moon with a spear' evokes a sense of futile aggression or pursuit of the unattainable.

The song's title, 'Cornucopia,' traditionally symbolizes abundance and nourishment, yet Tankian subverts this by singing about severing its head. This act of violence against a symbol of plenty reflects humanity's exploitation and destruction of natural resources. The lines 'We rape the Earth and don’t know why it strikes' and 'We fuck the earth and don’t know why it cries' are stark reminders of the environmental degradation caused by human actions, highlighting a disconnect between our actions and their consequences.

Tankian also touches on the theme of natural disasters, using them as metaphors for the chaos and destruction wrought by human activity. 'Hurricanes play musical chairs with homes and chattel' and 'The whirling dervish tornadoes reek all disaster' illustrate the unpredictable and devastating impact of these events. The song questions why we 'disfigure all the things that are so beautiful inside,' suggesting a self-destructive tendency within humanity. The final verses offer a glimmer of hope, contemplating the extraordinary nature of human existence and the potential for change, as seen in the lines 'Yes, I think we’re extraordinary / Being, and living / Yes, I think we ought to marry.'

'Tankian's 'Cornucopia' is a powerful commentary on environmental issues, human folly, and the potential for redemption. It challenges listeners to reflect on their relationship with the Earth and consider the impact of their actions.