The protagonist has finally reached the breaking point in their own story, but instead of it resulting in an explosive send-off, their exhaustion has plagued them with a resounding emotional numbness. The burning emotions that once fueled their catharsis and motivation are now muted, leaving them in some sort of apathetic, sluggish purgatory. They don't know how to interpret this new state of mind, whether it's a forfeited compliance with the absurdity, or a new, misunderstood beginning that stems from an elevated state of consciousness. All they can perceive is the ambiguous frontier ahead, which gives them no indication of hope. Because this dramatic shift has occurred, the protagonist fears that their deep confusion has placed them in a fragile state of vulnerability once again, but where the knowledge that they've harvested up to this point may be useless against an even greater unknown.
lyrics
How hard, and for how long, can one scream
Into the silent stillness of a dream?
The heart is strained,
Losing its voice from infinite exclaim
A soft caress from a consoling breeze
May bring contorted ones down to their knees
The hands are sore,
Lying before some empty frontier door
This wall I've pushed against is solid brick,
And not knowing how thick still makes me sick
The boulder falls
From my shoulders, exhaustion has me crawl
The infantry retreats to the long journey home, alone
Their emotions burned bright
But now are numbed, muted, and out of sight
Are my wild animals now free,
Or in their cage, by carousel decree?
If part of them is still awake
Will they know what's at stake?
...
credits
from Carousel (Part II),
track released November 5, 2021
Recorded by Greg Norman at Electrical Audio in Chicago, IL
Mastered by Bob Weston at Chicago Mastering Service in Chicago, IL
Produced by Okapi
Scott Mitchell Gorski - Upright Bass, Voice
Lindsey Paige Miller - Cello
Songs, Lyrics, and Concept by Scott Mitchell Gorski
Cello Parts written by Lindsey Paige Miller
OKAPI is a duo which utilizes upright bass, cello, and voice through raw, intimate orchestrations driven by honesty and
philosophical content. We advocate the conscious confrontation with reality, rather than the subconscious avoidance or distraction from it, and encourage individual awareness, freedom, and healthy growth. We hope to inspire consciousness in all those who are willing to listen....more
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