Ankh

Temples' song 'Ankh' delves into the intricate cycles of life, self-discovery, and the inevitable changes that come with time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey through various stages of life, from childhood innocence to the complexities of adulthood. The opening lines, 'People staring at discover / Feeble friends and their brothers / Make the child in you come out,' suggest a return to a more innocent, childlike state, perhaps as a means of coping with the harsh realities of life. This theme of rediscovery and transformation is a recurring motif throughout the song.

The narrative then shifts to a more somber tone, exploring themes of loss and resilience. 'When will she be a mother / Soon said tales from the gutter / Notions of herself ran out' speaks to the societal pressures and personal struggles faced by the protagonist. The imagery of 'mourning over her buckle' and 'boy with whom she lies moves out' evokes a sense of abandonment and the harsh realities of single motherhood. Yet, despite these challenges, the protagonist finds strength and a new sense of purpose, symbolized by 'streaming thoughts carry with her / Child before her child runs out.'

The song concludes with a reflection on the passage of time and the changes it brings. 'Point of wealth by the present / She becomes a thief far to benefit the system / Poisons from before dry out' suggests a shift in values and priorities as the protagonist navigates through life. The repeated lines 'Visions of you / Make the vision of me seem / So in touch only to see' highlight the interconnectedness of our experiences and how they shape our perceptions of ourselves and others. Ultimately, 'Ankh' is a poignant exploration of life's cyclical nature, the challenges we face, and the resilience we find within ourselves to overcome them.