Miserere

The Cat Empire's song 'Miserere' is a profound exploration of existential themes, blending poetic imagery with philosophical musings. The lyrics invite listeners to ponder the nature of existence, perception, and reality. The song opens with a series of questions that encourage introspection, asking if one has ever truly looked around, listened to the world, and reflected on their own experiences. This sets the stage for a journey through the mind, where the boundaries between reality and dreams blur, and the listener is urged to consider the deeper meanings behind everyday sights and sounds.

The song's narrative introduces enigmatic characters, such as a man in a white robe with a sign declaring 'I do not exist' and a woman who has lost her sense of self. These figures symbolize the fragility of identity and the elusive nature of existence. The man and woman represent the extremes of human experience, from complete self-negation to the loss of personal history, challenging the listener to reflect on their own sense of being. The refrain 'Miserere,' which means 'have mercy' in Latin, adds a layer of solemnity and a plea for understanding or compassion in the face of these existential dilemmas.

'Miserere' also delves into the paradoxes of truth and perception. The lyrics question the reliability of truth, suggesting that lies can sometimes hold more truth than the truth itself. This philosophical inquiry is further emphasized by the imagery of experiencing sounds, images, and thoughts in unconventional ways, highlighting the limitations of human senses and the subjective nature of reality. The song concludes with a celebration of life, despite its complexities and contradictions, with the repeated line 'Long live living if living can be this,' suggesting that the beauty of existence lies in its very impermanence and mystery.