The lyrics describe a sense of restlessness, numbness, and a need for personal revelation that cannot be simply told but must be experienced. The speaker struggles with the concept of control, disobedience, learning, and unlearning.

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Meaning of "You Can't Be Told It, You Must Behold It" by Swirlies


The lyrics of "You Can't Be Told It, You Must Behold It" by Swirlies delve into the themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the complexity of understanding one's own experiences. The repetition of phrases like "You can't be told it, you must behold it" highlights the idea that some knowledge cannot be merely taught but must be experienced firsthand. The struggle with control and disobedience reflects the internal conflict many face when trying to navigate life's uncertainties. The mention of learning you'll never learn suggests a constant evolution of understanding that comes from both embracing and rejecting societal norms. The lines about acts of controlling and methods of compensation illustrate the ways individuals attempt to assert authority in their lives, and the subsequent realization that true growth often comes from letting go of control and embracing the unknown. Overall, the lyrics speak to the intricate process of self-discovery, acceptance, and the continuous cycle of learning and unlearning in order to truly understand oneself and the world.