Plateau

Nirvana's 'Plateau' is a song that delves into the metaphorical search for meaning and accomplishment. The lyrics describe a plateau, a flat elevated landform, which can symbolize a state of stagnation or a level of achievement that one has reached. The 'grand old face of the plateau' suggests a challenge that many have attempted to conquer, with varying degrees of intimacy and success, as indicated by 'strangers and some to folks you know.' The mention of 'holy ghosts and talk show hosts' planted in the sand could imply that both spiritual and secular figures have tried to leave their mark on this journey, each with their own methods of influencing or 'beautifying' the landscape.

The chorus, with its 'bucket and a mop' and 'illustrated book about birds,' presents a stark contrast to the grandeur of the plateau. It suggests that once the summit is reached, the expected rewards are absent, replaced by mundane objects and simple pleasures. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the anticlimactic nature of achieving one's goals or the realization that the pursuit of knowledge ('who needs action when you got words') can be as fulfilling as more tangible achievements. The work on the plateau is described as 'fun,' which may indicate that the process is more important than the outcome.

The final verse expands on the theme of searching for the next challenge. Some look to distant lands, while others believe the next step is right where they stand. This reflects the human tendency to either seek external opportunities or to find contentment in one's current situation. The song ultimately suggests that there are no definitive answers, and what might be a plateau for one person could be a peak for another. The meaning of success and fulfillment is subjective and often elusive, a concept that resonates with Nirvana's often introspective and existential lyrical themes.