Meaning of "Mandala" by Circa Survive

"Mandala" explores themes of mystery, hidden truths, and the desire for liberation. The opening lines, "Dance with me for I'll be leaving soon, the afterbirth on the keypads overwhelm," create a sense of urgency and a departure from something overwhelming. The mention of "the afterbirth on the keypads" suggests the aftermath or consequences of our actions in the digital age, where technology can overwhelm and consume us.

The line, "Did he who make the lamb make thee? Help me find its origin," references the William Blake poem "The Tyger," questioning the origins of creation and the existence of both good and evil. The speaker is searching for answers and seeking to understand the root of something, perhaps the struggles and complexities of the human experience.

The references to a "cartoon house" and a "cartoon car" evoke a sense of artificiality and a world that is not grounded in reality. The idea of hidden cities buried beneath our own suggests that there are deeper layers and hidden truths within our society. The repeated plea, "Let the people be free, let the people see," calls for liberation and transparency in a world that may be controlled by external forces.

The lyrics also touch on feelings of alienation and the desire for connection. The line, "We so obviously had another hand and so separate, how do I act like I've made this," suggests a sense of not fully belonging or feeling controlled by external forces. The question of "What happens when we reach for each other?" reflects the longing for meaningful human connections and the potential for growth and understanding.

Overall, "Mandala" delves into existential questions, longing for freedom, and the search for truth and connection in a complex and often overwhelming world.