The song "Living Together" by Circa Survive explores themes of identity and the struggle to find meaning in life. It discusses the importance of attachment and the erasure of things, while questioning the purpose of existence. The lyrics also touch on the idea of making things up as one goes along and the fleeting nature of life.

Read more
image

Meaning of "Living Together" by Circa Survive


The lyrics of "Living Together" delve into the complexities of human existence and the search for purpose and meaning in life. The opening lines, "It starts out like a season in reverse, A way to set your mind above and over words," suggest a reversal of the natural order and an attempt to transcend the limitations of language and communication. The idea of attachment and identity is explored through the lines "Attached means identity, Erases things so how can we record?" Here, the song asks how one can define themselves and keep a record of their experiences when attachment to things eventually leads to their erasure.

The distress call code-word of "I wanna live" reveals a longing for genuine and meaningful existence. The line "To places he can only hide in other peoples minds" could be interpreted as searching for solace or escape by immersing oneself in the thoughts and perspectives of others. This idea is further explored in the repetition of "he makes it up as it goes, it goes away," suggesting that life is transient and constantly evolving, and one must adapt and create their own meaning as they go along.

The lyrics also touch on the duality of the human mind, with the lines "Your rational mind's insane, Taste the sound you make." This suggests that logic and reason can sometimes lead to madness or inner conflict, and that true understanding can be found in experiencing and embracing the senses. The references to sunlight representing both an untold story and a mother figure hint at the complexities of life and the nurturing aspect of existence.

The song concludes with the question "Would you trade your soul for gold?" This line prompts the listener to consider the value they place on material possessions and whether they would sacrifice their true essence for temporary wealth or gain.

Overall, "Living Together" explores the existential dilemmas of identity, attachment, and the search for meaning, encouraging listeners to question their own existence and the choices they make.