Patterns

System Of A Down's song 'Patterns' delves into the complexities of human existence and the often-overlooked essence of truly living. The lyrics open with the metaphor of life as a story, urging listeners to find their own vision and glory. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to be present and genuinely alive. The song challenges the notion of merely going through the motions, suggesting that pretending to live or see does not equate to actual living or seeing.

The recurring theme of being present in the moment is emphasized with lines like 'But to live means to be here, in the present, now.' This highlights the importance of mindfulness and appreciating the gift of each day. The song critiques the superficiality of modern life, where people often lose sight of what is real and essential. The lyrics question the societal norms and structures that lead to this loss of true sight and genuine living.

A particularly striking part of the song is the contrast between 'organised patterns of chaos' and 'chaotic organisations of man.' This suggests a preference for the natural, inherent order found in chaos over the artificial, often disordered systems created by humans. The imagery of patterns in the carpet that 'do add up' without needing to be counted further reinforces the idea that some truths and realities are self-evident and do not require forced understanding. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, 'Patterns' encourages listeners to seek authenticity and presence in their lives, challenging them to look beyond the surface and embrace the deeper, often chaotic, truths of existence.