Instant Psalm

The Smile's 'Instant Psalm' delves into the tumultuous experience of navigating emotional and existential crises. The song opens with the imagery of being 'overflown in a hurricane,' a powerful metaphor for feeling overwhelmed by life's chaotic forces. Despite the intensity of the storm, the lyrics suggest a paradoxical numbness, 'we feel no pain,' indicating a sense of detachment or resignation in the face of overwhelming circumstances.

The recurring motif of a 'narrow gap' symbolizes the slim opportunities or moments of clarity that appear amidst the chaos. This gap represents a fleeting chance to escape or find solace, yet it is so narrow that it often feels elusive. The lyrics 'we can slide through this narrow gap' and 'we feel you near, so close that we disappear' evoke a sense of fleeting connection and the ephemeral nature of relief or understanding. The struggle to hold on, as expressed in 'I'm holding on to the sides,' underscores the difficulty of maintaining stability in such turbulent times.

The song also explores the theme of emptiness, describing it as having 'many forms.' This suggests that emptiness is a multifaceted experience, manifesting in various ways, such as loneliness or a sense of void. The line 'Yes is not a real yes' hints at the ambiguity and uncertainty that often accompany these feelings. The acknowledgment that 'the loneliness is a way to drown' speaks to the consuming nature of isolation. Ultimately, 'Instant Psalm' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, capturing the struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming and empty.