Meaning of The Wheel (Is Turning Now) by Everything Everything

The Wheel of Power: Unpacking the Complexities of "The Wheel (Is Turning Now)" by Everything Everything

Everything Everything’s thought-provoking single, "The Wheel (Is Turning Now)", is a haunting commentary on the pervasive themes of manipulation, blind faith, and the power dynamics within society. The song’s atmospheric soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics challenge listeners to confront the notion that our beliefs and ideas are often shaped by powerful figures who may not always have our best interests at heart.

The Lyrics: A Reflection of Manipulation and Control

The opening lines of the song depict a scenario where a charismatic figure, possibly a politician or religious leader, wields significant influence over the narrator’s life and beliefs. The line "He held my hand when I died" serves as a poignant metaphor for the narrator’s complete surrender to the influence of this figure. This sense of submission is reinforced by the image of a rotating hard hat, which symbolizes the lack of genuine concern for the people this figure represents.

Throughout the verses, the narrator describes being influenced and controlled by this powerful figure, while the pre-chorus highlights their confusion and detachment. The repetition of "Or is it in the way he calls your name?" in the chorus underscores the charismatic nature and influence this person exerts over others.

The Cycle of Control

The wheel turning, repeatedly referenced throughout the song, serves as a powerful symbol for the cycle of control and manipulation within society. This image implies that escaping this cycle is a monumental task, as we often find ourselves trapped in patterns of submission and obedience to those in power.

Personal Experience: As I reflected on the lyrics, I couldn’t help but think of instances where I blindly followed the lead of those in authority, without question or critical thought. "The Wheel (Is Turning Now)" challenges us to recognize the subtleties of manipulation and to take responsibility for our own beliefs and perspectives.

Imprisonment and Fear

The song’s break section introduces themes of imprisonment and fear, as the narrator describes their feelings of being trapped and controlled. Phrases such as "Bone, to the blade,", "My prison, my prison, my guard,", and "Dread, that’s what the devil said" convey a sense of desperation and helplessness, as if the narrator is trapped in a web of fear and uncertainty.

Submission and Dependence

The second verse further illuminates the narrator’s surrender to this influential figure, describing the hands-on control they exert over their life and decisions. The phrase "terror and old blood screech" suggests a harmful and unsettling combination that is yet to reveal its consequences. The image of throwing crutches down, symbolizing the relinquishing of personal agency, resonates deeply with the narrator’s sense of submission and dependence.

Reflections and Questions

The song’s outro poses a profound question to the listener, asking whether they are aware of their own progress or if they understand the extent of their own ideas and perspectives. This challenges the listener to reflect on their own beliefs and the potential influence others may have on them. "Are you aware of your own thoughts?" becomes a haunting refrain, urging the listener to take responsibility for their own intellectual freedom and autonomy.

Conclusion: A Call to Self-Awareness

"The Wheel (Is Turning Now)" by Everything Everything is a thought-provoking exploration of control, submission, and blind faith. Through its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, the song invites listeners to confront the complex web of power dynamics within society and to question the notion that our beliefs and ideas are often shaped by others. As we reflect on the song’s themes and messages, we are called to take responsibility for our own thoughts, perspectives, and actions, and to recognize the subtle manipulations that may be at play in our lives. By doing so, we may find ourselves freed from the cycle of control, equipped with the courage to ask the difficult questions and shape our own destinies.

Watch Top 100 Songs in 2024