Strange Machines
The Gathering
Time Travel Fantasies in 'Strange Machines'
The Gathering's song 'Strange Machines' delves into the human fascination with time travel and the desire to experience historical events firsthand. The lyrics express a longing to transcend the limitations of a single lifetime and explore different eras, from World War II to the Renaissance, and even biblical times. This yearning is encapsulated in the repeated desire to 'fly in strange machines,' a metaphor for a time-traveling device that could make these dreams a reality.
The song's protagonist dreams of building a machine that can traverse time, allowing them to witness pivotal moments in history and meet influential figures like Cleopatra, Beethoven, and Chaka Khan. This desire to 'do centuries in a lifetime' reflects a deep curiosity and a wish to understand the past in a more intimate and tangible way. The lyrics suggest that experiencing these moments firsthand would provide a richer, more nuanced understanding of history than any book or documentary could offer.
The Gathering, known for their atmospheric and progressive rock sound, uses 'Strange Machines' to explore themes of curiosity, wonder, and the human desire for knowledge. The song taps into a universal fantasy of time travel, a concept that has fascinated humanity for centuries. By blending historical references with a futuristic vision, the band creates a compelling narrative that invites listeners to imagine the possibilities of transcending time and space.