Intension

Tool's song 'Intension' delves into the themes of purity, willpower, and the cyclical nature of existence. The lyrics open with the repetition of 'Pure as we begin,' suggesting an inherent purity at the start of life or any new endeavor. This purity is juxtaposed with the idea of being 'Ruled by will alone,' indicating that while we may start pure, our actions and decisions are driven by our willpower and intentions. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of human nature and the choices we make.

The imagery of a stone is significant in the song. Initially, the stone is a simple object, but it quickly becomes a tool for both creation and destruction. 'Gather, place, erase so / Shelter turns to home' suggests that our will can transform our environment, turning a mere shelter into a home. However, the stone also becomes a weapon: 'Throw to slay the stranger / Swore to crush his bones.' This duality highlights the potential for both constructive and destructive actions driven by our will.

The transformation of a 'Spark' into a 'flame' and then a 'fire' serves as a metaphor for the escalation of intentions and actions. A spark can light the way or warm a home, but it can also forge a blade to 'slay the stranger' and 'take whatever we desire.' This progression underscores the power of will and intention, capable of both nurturing and harming. The song concludes with a return to purity, 'Leave as we come in / Pure as light, return to One,' suggesting a cyclical journey where we ultimately return to our original state, influenced but not wholly defined by our actions.

Tool's 'Intension' is a profound exploration of the human condition, examining how our pure beginnings are shaped by our will and intentions, leading to a complex interplay of creation and destruction, ultimately returning to a state of purity.