Exploring Life through the Lens of Bob Geldorf’s ‘The Vegetarians of Love’
Beyond the familiar hits, there's a treasure trove of unique and profound tracks that hold the potential to reflect on some of life's deeper questions. One such album is “The Vegetarians of Love” by Bob Geldorf, released in 1990. This collection of songs, often overlooked, offers a rich tapestry of philosophical reflections through its poetic lyrics and complex themes.
The Uniqueness of "The Vegetarians of Love"
The Vegetarians of Love is not your typical album. It's a journey into the depths of introspection and self-awareness. Bob Geldorf, known for his powerful and often socially conscious songs, delivers a more personal and unsettling album with this collection. Here, we explore three tracks that encapsulate the album's unique and compelling nature:
Thinking Voyager 2 Type Things
The first track, “Thinking Voyager 2 Type Things”, is a perfect introduction to the essence of the album. Its lyrics, written in a poetic and abstract style, describe an almost mystical connection to creation and life:
‘Im electric with the snap and the crackle of creation Im mixing up the mud with the spit So rise up Brendan Behan and like a drunken Lazarus Lets traipse the high bronze of the evening sky.’
The song's imagery and spirit evoke a deep sense of wonder and existential curiosity, making it a must-listen for anyone intrigued by philosophical interpretations of life.
The Great Song of Indifference
Another track, “The Great Song of Indifference”, delves into broader societal themes:
‘I dont mind if culture crumbles I dont mind if religion stumbles I cant hear the speakers mumble And I dont mind at all.’
In just a few lines, Geldorf critiques the apathy and disconnection that permeate modern society. The song is a powerful commentary on the discomfort with change and the desire to remain complacent. This track resonates with anyone who has ever felt alienated by societal expectations or the general indifference towards deeper questions of existence.
Big Romantic Stuff
The final track we consider, “Big Romantic Stuff”, is perhaps the most poignant and thought-provoking on the album. Its lyrics tell the story of someone grappling with the passage of time and the meaning of life:
‘To ease the pain of it to fill the empty void She stores up ancient souvenirs like ravens with their hoards Its not the getting old she minds its the meaningless of being She thinks about all this while Jean sings about la vie And accordions and violins take her back in time When the only explanation was a kiss and love and life...’
This song encapsulates the pain and existential angst often associated with growing older and reflecting on the transient nature of life. It's a deeply moving tribute to the struggle of finding meaning and purpose in a world often devoid of answers.
Why Listen to "The Vegetarians of Love"?
If these tracks pique your curiosity, I strongly recommend giving the entire album a thorough listen. It's far from the typical pop filler or cold factory-produced music; instead, it's a genuine and introspective exploration of life’s complexities. For those seeking to contemplate the meaning of existence and be confronted with the raw realities of human experience, this album is a perfect choice.
Delve into it for the first time, and then revisit it immediately. The album's themes of self-discovery, societal critique, and existential exploration warrant multiple listenings to fully appreciate their depth and complexity.
Additional Resources
For a closer look at the lyrical poetry of “Thinking Voyager 2”, I encourage you to read the lyrics. These words, rich in metaphor and imagery, serve as a powerful poem about the nature of human existence:
Thinking Voyager 2 Type Things Lyrics
Embrace the journey of discovering the profound reflections hidden within this lesser-known album. It's a unique and thought-provoking piece of work that will undoubtedly enrich your understanding of life's contemplative side.