The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Voyage of Gurdjieff (The Fourth Way)" by the artist "Therion"

The song "Voyage of Gurdjieff (The Fourth Way)" by Therion is an allegorical narrative inspired by Gurdjieff's teachings of the Fourth Way. It urges the listener to embark on a journey of spiritual awakening and to seek their true "I" through metaphors and references to various mystical traditions.

The phrase "Go seek awakening alone" emphasizes the individual nature of the spiritual quest. "Life is only real when 'I' am" alludes to Gurdjieff's idea that most people live in a state of "waking sleep," unaware of their true potential. The Fourth Way, according to Gurdjieff, is the path of conscious development that leads to awakening.

The dances of the Sufis and dervishes mentioned in the lyrics symbolize practices aimed at achieving altered states of consciousness and union with the divine. The Yezidis and their "secret knowledge" hint at the importance of esoteric knowledge and traditions in the process of spiritual growth.

"Octave" is another term from Gurdjieff's teachings, denoting the law of cosmic octaves, which governs the development of all phenomena. "The story of the Lord of the Flies" can be interpreted as a call to overcome inner demons and illusions on the path to enlightenment.

The nine-pointed star shining in the soul symbolizes the attainment of a higher level of consciousness and the acquisition of wisdom. "The Herald of Light" is not only the title of Gurdjieff's book but also a metaphor for a person who has attained enlightenment and brings the light of truth to the world.

The final lines of the song "Is there life on Earth? Work will set you free" are a call to active action and self-improvement. "Gurdjieff's journey" is a metaphor for the spiritual path of every person. The phrase "we can build our own soul like a black diamond" emphasizes the creative nature of man and his ability for spiritual transformation.