Forty Six & 2

Tool's 'Forty Six & 2' is a song that delves into the themes of personal growth, transformation, and self-discovery. The lyrics, rich with metaphor and introspection, invite the listener to join the journey of shedding one's metaphorical skin to reveal a deeper understanding of the self. The title itself references a concept inspired by the work of Carl Jung and the idea of chromosome pairs, suggesting an evolution to a higher state of being.

The song's protagonist speaks of 'digging through my old numb shadow,' which can be interpreted as an exploration of the subconscious and the aspects of oneself that are typically hidden or suppressed. The act of 'picking scabs again' symbolizes the painful revisiting of past wounds and experiences in order to heal and move forward. This process is described as a necessary struggle to achieve a significant change, as the shadow sheds its skin, indicating a transformation.

The recurring theme of change is encapsulated in the lines 'Change is coming through my shadow' and 'Now is my time.' The singer expresses a desire to embrace the changes, to 'feel the metamorphosis,' and to confront the challenges that come with personal evolution. The reference to 'Forty six and two' suggests an aspiration to reach a new level of consciousness or existence, which is a step beyond the current self. The song ultimately portrays a journey of self-examination, acceptance, and the courage to undergo the difficult process of personal change.