Nicola

Stuart Davis's song 'Nicola' delves into the profound themes of love, existence, and the cyclical nature of life. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and philosophical musings, creating a tapestry that invites listeners to reflect on the deeper aspects of human experience. The repeated references to 'Nicola' serve as a focal point, possibly symbolizing a muse, a loved one, or even an abstract concept like love or life itself.

The opening lines, 'we rattle a gateless gate and push against a weightless weight,' suggest the paradoxical nature of human endeavors. These lines evoke the Zen Buddhist concept of a 'gateless gate,' a metaphor for the spiritual journey where the seeker must transcend dualistic thinking. The 'weightless weight' further emphasizes the intangible challenges we face in our quest for meaning and understanding.

The song's exploration of love is both poignant and philosophical. 'Whatever love creates, love erases' speaks to the duality and impermanence inherent in love. Love is depicted as a force that both gives and takes, creating a cycle of birth and death, as seen in the lines 'fallen from the womb, risen from the tomb.' This cyclical nature is further emphasized with 'all the ones alive today are the ones that passed away,' suggesting a continuum of existence where life and death are intertwined.

The recurring imagery of twins with different faces highlights the theme of duality and interconnectedness. Each pair of twins represents different aspects of the same essence, much like how love and loss are two sides of the same coin. The use of 'carried in perfume' adds a sensory dimension, evoking the ephemeral and lingering nature of memories and emotions associated with love and life.

Stuart Davis's 'Nicola' is a contemplative piece that encourages listeners to ponder the mysteries of existence, the nature of love, and the eternal cycles that define our lives. Its poetic and philosophical depth makes it a song that resonates on multiple levels, offering new insights with each listen.