God-ish
Will Stetson
The Existential Crisis of Modernity in 'God-ish'
Will Stetson's 'God-ish' delves into the existential angst and disillusionment of modern life. The song opens with a stark observation about the inevitability of endings, whether in love or life, setting a somber tone. The repetitive 'Tu turu tu tu turu' serves as a haunting refrain, emphasizing the cyclical and almost mechanical nature of existence. The term 'God-ish' suggests a semblance of divinity or control, but with a crucial caveat—it's not quite the real thing. This reflects the modern struggle to find meaning in a world where traditional structures of faith and purpose have eroded.
The lyrics 'Got ist tot (God is dead)' directly reference Friedrich Nietzsche's famous proclamation, underscoring the theme of existential crisis. The song critiques the superficiality and materialism of contemporary society, as seen in lines like 'Big cash, rolling right until the end' and 'With your ugly hair dye, and your eyes, and overflowing lies.' These lines highlight the emptiness of chasing external validation and material success. The repeated phrase 'That’s God-ish, baby, face it' serves as a wake-up call, urging listeners to confront the hollow nature of their pursuits.
The song also explores the isolation and loneliness that come with self-awareness and intelligence. Lines like 'So alone cause you’re smarter than the rest' and 'It’s tiny, so small, man your mind is' reflect the alienation felt by those who see through the facade of societal norms. The song's conclusion, 'I liked it more when I’d dance and not ask why,' suggests a longing for simpler times when existential questions didn't cloud the joy of living. 'God-ish' is a poignant commentary on the human condition, urging listeners to reflect on their own lives and the societal constructs that shape them.