Meaning of "Smell the Color 9" by Chris Rice

The song "Smell the Color 9" by Chris Rice delves into the common human experience of questioning one's faith in the face of perceived lack of direct encounters with the divine. The artist confesses to not having experienced the "special revelations" that others seem to have had, yet expresses a deep desire to truly know and believe in God. The repetitive chorus captures the frustration of feeling spiritually disconnected despite possessing sensory abilities like sight, smell, and counting. By using the metaphor of trying to "smell the color nine," Rice cleverly illustrates the intangible and elusive nature of faith that cannot be fully grasped or understood through conventional means. The verses highlight the paradox of feeling distant from God while acknowledging His constant presence and guidance in everyday life. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of trust, perseverance, and humility in the search for a deeper connection with the divine, even in the absence of grandiose spiritual encounters.