Everything That Rises

Sufjan Stevens' song 'Everything That Rises' delves into themes of spiritual elevation, redemption, and the struggle against inner demons. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of yearning for transcendence, as the narrator seeks to be lifted to a 'higher place.' This higher place can be interpreted as a state of spiritual enlightenment or a closer connection to the divine. The repeated plea to 'forget everything that was before' suggests a desire to leave behind past mistakes and sins, seeking a fresh start and a new perspective.

The phrase 'everything that rises must converge' is a central motif in the song, echoing the title of a short story by Flannery O'Connor. This phrase implies that all efforts towards spiritual or moral elevation will ultimately lead to a point of convergence, where truth and understanding are unified. The song's repetition of this line reinforces the inevitability and universality of this spiritual journey. The invocation of Jesus to 'lift me up to a higher plane' underscores the religious undertones, highlighting the narrator's reliance on divine intervention to overcome personal struggles and achieve redemption.

The song also addresses the battle against inner demons and the need for self-reflection. Lines like 'cast me not in stone, while my demons rage' and 'turn yourself around to see what I can say' suggest an internal conflict and the importance of introspection in the process of spiritual growth. The mention of 'wickedness' and 'evil' further emphasizes the moral challenges faced by the narrator. Ultimately, 'Everything That Rises' is a poignant exploration of the human quest for spiritual elevation, redemption, and the reconciliation of one's inner turmoil with the desire for divine grace.