Philosopher
Yellowstone and Voice
The Quest for Guidance in 'Philosopher'
The song 'Philosopher' by Yellowstone and Voice delves into the search for meaning and guidance in life, as represented by the figure of a philosopher. The lyrics paint a picture of various groups of people – children, blind men, travelers, mortals, the wealthy, and the poor – all seeking direction and wisdom from a philosopher. This philosopher symbolizes a source of knowledge and enlightenment that people from all walks of life are drawn to, hoping to find answers to their existential queries.
The repeated question 'Do you know where you go?' suggests a sense of uncertainty and doubt, not just among the followers but also directed at the philosopher himself. It raises the question of whether the philosopher truly possesses the knowledge and certainty that others attribute to him. The chorus further explores this by asking if the philosopher can live by the principles he espouses and whether his teachings are practical or too idealistic for the real world. The imagery of people 'falling down' implies that there may be a disconnect between lofty philosophical ideals and the harsh realities of life.
The song ultimately touches on the human condition and our innate desire to understand our purpose and place in the world. It questions the reliability of those we look up to for wisdom and challenges the applicability of philosophical teachings in everyday life. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever sought answers to life's big questions and found that those who claim to know the way may be just as lost as everyone else.