Ænema

Tool's 'Ænema' is a raw and unfiltered critique of modern society, particularly focusing on the superficiality and moral decay of Los Angeles. The song opens with a grim prediction of the end times, expressing a desire for a cataclysmic event to cleanse the world of its perceived filth. The lyrics paint a picture of a 'bullshit, three-ring circus' filled with 'sideshow freaks,' a metaphor for the shallow and materialistic culture that the band sees as pervasive in LA.

The chorus, 'Learn to swim, see you down in Arizona Bay,' is a reference to comedian Bill Hicks' idea that a massive earthquake could cause California to fall into the ocean, creating a new coastline. This imagery serves as a darkly humorous yet poignant call for a fresh start, free from the societal ills that plague the current world. The repeated phrase 'learn to swim' suggests a need for adaptability and resilience in the face of inevitable change.

Throughout the song, Tool criticizes various aspects of modern life, from consumerism ('Fret for your figure and... your latte') to the obsession with fame and superficiality ('Fuck these dysfunctional insecure actresses'). The song's aggressive tone and explicit language underscore the band's frustration and disillusionment with the state of society. The repeated calls for natural disasters like rain and tidal waves symbolize a desire for a purifying force to reset the world.

In essence, 'Ænema' is a cathartic outcry against the perceived moral and cultural decay of contemporary society. It challenges listeners to reflect on their values and the world they inhabit, urging them to be prepared for drastic changes that may be necessary to cleanse and renew the world.