Wiseblood

Zola Jesus' song 'Wiseblood' delves into the existential quest for meaning, wisdom, and strength in the face of life's challenges. The lyrics reflect a deep introspection about the purpose of one's actions and the impact of experiences on personal growth. The opening lines, 'This'll be my last hope / That this dream will carry me through,' suggest a sense of desperation and reliance on dreams to navigate through life's difficulties. The mention of history as a 'long rope' and truth's inability to silence it highlights the enduring nature of past experiences and the inescapable reality of truth.

The recurring question, 'If it doesn't make you wiser / Doesn't make you stronger / Doesn't make you live a little bit / What are you doing?' serves as a powerful refrain that challenges the listener to evaluate the significance of their actions. It emphasizes the importance of growth and resilience, suggesting that experiences should contribute to one's wisdom and strength. The song's introspective nature is further underscored by the lines, 'And this'll be my one remorse / That extremes kept me abused,' indicating a reflection on past mistakes and the consequences of living in extremes.

The imagery of losing senses and being in a 'timeless daze' conveys a sense of disorientation and confusion, perhaps symbolizing the struggle to find clarity and purpose. The crowded and drowned-out phases represent the overwhelming nature of life's challenges, making it difficult to see through to the truth. Ultimately, 'Wiseblood' is a contemplative piece that encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of meaningful experiences that contribute to personal growth and resilience.