Flicker
Theocracy
A Flicker in a Synthetic World: Theocracy's Anthem of Alienation
Theocracy's song "Flicker" delves into the profound sense of alienation and disconnection that many individuals feel in the modern world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels out of place, as if they are a shadow from a bygone era, struggling to find their footing in a society that seems increasingly foreign and disorienting. This sense of not belonging is a recurring theme, highlighted by the repeated refrain of feeling like a stranger in a strange land. The song's protagonist grapples with the dissonance between their inner values and the external world's chaotic and often morally bankrupt nature.
The song also critiques contemporary society's moral and ethical decay, drawing on historical and biblical references to underscore its message. The mention of Mozart being buried in a pauper's grave and the crowd choosing Barabbas over Christ serve as powerful metaphors for a world that has lost its way, prioritizing the trivial and the corrupt over the virtuous and the true. The lyrics lament the rise of technology as a false god, the superficiality of life on screens, and the erosion of genuine human connections, all of which contribute to the protagonist's sense of alienation.
"Flicker" ultimately reflects on the transient nature of life, suggesting that our existence is but a brief moment in the grand scheme of things. Despite the pervasive sense of not belonging, the song acknowledges the fleeting beauty of life, even if it is just a flicker. This duality of despair and fleeting hope captures the essence of the human condition in a world that often feels synthetic and disconnected. Theocracy's powerful lyrics and evocative imagery invite listeners to reflect on their own place in the world and the value of a life in an age where true connection and meaning can seem elusive.