Meaning of "Photographs (You are Taking Now)" by Damon Albarn

"Photographs (You are Taking Now)" by Damon Albarn delves into the concept of capturing moments in time through photography and how those images may lose their importance over time. The song seems to caution against getting too caught up in the present moment and urges listeners to be mindful of the images they are creating as they might not stand the test of time. The mention of flying over black sands in a glass aeroplane crashing in slow motion, as well as walking as zombies to the church of John Coltrane, could symbolize the surreal and transient nature of life itself. The lyrics also touch on themes of societal pressures and vanities, such as the patent courts of nature and the defeat of a metronome. Ultimately, the song seems to suggest that all things are temporary and will eventually dissolve, urging listeners to be conscious of the significance of the images they capture.