Meaning of "Commissioning a Symphony in C" by Cake

The lyrics of "Commissioning a Symphony in C" by Cake explore the themes of power, wealth, and the disconnection between material success and inner fulfillment. The Austrian nobleman's commissioning of the symphony symbolizes his authoritative position and the exploitation of the lower classes to acquire wealth. The symphony itself represents material grandeur and success, as it fills the concert hall with warmth and captivates the audience. However, the nobleman's thoughts reveal the emptiness and dissatisfaction that lie beneath his opulent lifestyle.

The nobleman's focus on what is not instead of what is reflects his inability to find true happiness and fulfillment. Despite his wealth and power, he is detached from the joys of life, only brimming with thoughts of death. This suggests that material success alone does not bring contentment, and that true fulfillment comes from a connection to oneself and others.

The lyrics also convey a critique of societal hierarchies and the unequal distribution of wealth. The nobleman's ability to commission such a symphony comes from the money he "squeezed from the peasants." This highlights the exploitative nature of the noble class, using the labor and resources of the lower classes to sustain and enhance their own privileged lives. The contrast between the nobleman's extravagant lifestyle and the struggles of the peasants further emphasizes the unjust power dynamics at play.

Overall, the lyrics of "Commissioning a Symphony in C" present a complex exploration of power, wealth, and inner emptiness. The nobleman's commissioning of the symphony serves as a metaphor for the pursuit of material success and status, while his internal struggle reflects the hollowness that can accompany such pursuits. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment cannot be achieved through external achievements alone but requires a deeper connection to oneself and others.