The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Go (Blank Sea)" by the artist "Zola Jesus"

Zola Jesus's "Go (Blank Sea)" is a contemplative exploration of seeking meaning and authenticity in a world that can feel alienating and impersonal.

The opening lines, "What does it give you when you can't sleep? / Does it give more than it takes away?" set the tone for the entire piece. The protagonist's insomnia can be interpreted as a metaphor for restlessness and dissatisfaction. She searches for answers in the night, questioning whether the pursuit of truth is worth the sleepless nights and sacrifices it demands.

The recurring motif of "I'm going to the center / Where they don't know my name / I'm going to the center / Where everyone looks the same" conveys a sense of anonymity and depersonalization often associated with large cities. The protagonist seeks refuge from superficiality and falsehood ("Who can give a truthful answer / When we're all living a lie?") amidst the masses of equally nameless faces.

However, despite the pessimistic undertones, there's also a sense of determination embedded within the lyrics. The line "But I haven't lost my way" speaks to the protagonist's unwavering commitment to her pursuit of truth, even if she hasn't quite found it yet. Her journey to the "center" can be interpreted as a metaphor for an inward search, a striving for self-discovery and authenticity in a world that tries to impose its standards.