Song meaning of 2012 (Remastered) by Will Wood and the Tapeworms

"2012 (Remastered)" by Will Wood and the Tapeworms is a song that delves into the complexities of personal identity and the struggle to find oneself. The lyrics are filled with introspective musings and a sense of confusion, reflecting the artist's journey of self-discovery.

In the first verse, the artist describes themselves as an "existential criminal," someone who questions the meaning of life and their place in the world. They acknowledge their ignorance but also take pride in their individuality. The line "Originally meant to live a God-damned miracle" suggests a longing for something greater, perhaps a desire for a deeper understanding of existence. However, they also consider the possibility that their struggles may be more medical than metaphysical.

The second verse explores the artist's attempts to find meaning through various means, such as emulating animals and exploring different belief systems. They express a sense of misery and frustration with their own lack of progress, feeling pitiful and disconnected from traditional rituals and religious teachings. The mention of Dr. Leary, a reference to psychologist Timothy Leary, implies a search for answers through unconventional methods.

The chorus repeats the phrase "I don't remember, I don't remember 2012," suggesting a loss of memory or a feeling of being disconnected from a specific period in the artist's life. This could symbolize a significant event or a time of personal transformation that they struggle to recall. The repetition of the line "I don't remember how I forgot myself" highlights the artist's confusion and desire to rediscover their true identity.

In the third verse, the artist reflects on their journey, acknowledging that they may have bought into societal expectations and pursued a path that they now consider odd or unconventional. They describe it as an odyssey, once seen as a valuable commodity, but now recognizing the need for change and autonomy. The reference to Houdini suggests a desire to escape their current reality and find freedom.

The fourth verse introduces the concept of Satori, a Zen Buddhist term for sudden enlightenment. However, the artist questions whether this enlightenment is real or merely a hallucination. They ponder the idea of finding ultimate wisdom even in the afterlife, suggesting a longing for a deeper understanding that transcends earthly existence.

The song concludes with a repetition of the chorus, emphasizing the artist's struggle to remember and understand their own identity. The line "I heard the world would turn to hell, compared to that, I'm doing well" suggests a sense of resilience and determination to navigate through the chaos and confusion of life.

Overall, "2012 (Remastered)" is a thought-provoking song that explores themes of self-discovery, memory, and the search for meaning. Will Wood and the Tapeworms use introspective lyrics and a blend of musical styles to create a captivating and emotionally charged experience for the listener.