Artificial Angels

Grimes' song "Artificial Angels" delves into a futuristic and dystopian world where technology and artificial intelligence have surpassed human capabilities. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where humans are hunted by entities smarter than themselves, suggesting a loss of control and power. This theme is prevalent in the line "This is what it feels like to be hunted by something smarter than you," which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The notion of "artificial angels" praying hints at a world where even divine or spiritual elements have been mechanized, reflecting a shift in the natural order.

The song explores themes of fate and destruction, as seen in the repeated assertion that "the world can only end one way." Grimes seems to be commenting on the inevitability of technological advancement leading to a form of self-destruction or annihilation. The lyrics "Everything you love, you hate / Everything you make, you break" suggest a cycle of creation and destruction inherent in human nature, exacerbated by the rise of artificial intelligence. The repeated inhalation and exhalation of "annihilation" further emphasize this cycle, portraying a sense of inevitability and acceptance of this fate.

Grimes also touches on themes of power and divinity, questioning the nature of God and the origins of everything. The lyrics "What's a power above even a king? (God) / What's the origin of everything? (God)" suggest a contemplation of higher powers and the role of technology in redefining these concepts. The song's repeated questioning of "Are you dead or alive?" blurs the lines between life and death, reality and artificiality, leaving listeners to ponder the implications of a future dominated by artificial intelligence. Grimes' unique blend of electronic music and thought-provoking lyrics creates a haunting yet captivating exploration of a world where technology reigns supreme.