Meaning of "Hourglass" by Current 93

The lyrics from Current 93's "Hourglass" delve deep into themes of mortality, impermanence, and the inherent emptiness of human pursuits. The metaphor of an hourglass as a representation of life serves to remind listeners of the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of death. The constant movement of the sand grains through the hourglass symbolizes the passage of time, the ticking clock of our lives, and the relentless march towards the end. The lyricist muses on the brevity of joy and the weight of sorrows, portraying a sense of disillusionment with earthly desires and pursuits. Whether it be the pursuit of wealth, honor, knowledge, or beauty, the lyrics suggest that all these endeavors ultimately lead to disappointment, pain, and emptiness. The description of human life as fragile, transient, and ultimately insignificant in the grand scheme of things serves as a sobering reflection on the nature of existence. It prompts listeners to contemplate the temporal nature of life and the importance of finding meaning and purpose beyond mere material pursuits and desires.