Introduction

There are some songs that touch us deeply, not just because of their catchy melodies or impressive vocals, but because they carry a profound message that resonates with our own experiences and emotions. One such song is “Cotard’s Solution (Anatta​/​Dukkha​/​Anicca)” by Will Wood and the Tapeworms. This song has stirred something within me, making me reflect on the meaning of life and the struggles we face in our journey.

Table of Contents

The Lyrics

“What if the wind caught up with me, started to change when I did?

Would I blow out like a light? Or like a kite fly away?

What if the fear of darkness gave way to the fear of color?

Would you live in black and white? Or rest your eyes through the day?”

These opening lines reflect the soul-searching nature of the song. It poses questions about the impact of change and the fear of the unknown. It makes us contemplate whether embracing change leads to growth or a loss of identity. It suggests that fear can keep us stagnant, preventing us from fully experiencing the vibrant colors of life.

“Cry my name, remind my brain of my identity

I’m not gonna listen, I’m not my volition, I’m

Sha na na na na na na na, free will”

In these lines, the artist expresses a conflict between the sense of self and the influence of external factors. He questions whether he has control over his own destiny or if external forces are shaping his actions. The repetition of “Sha na na na na na na na, free will” emphasizes the struggle to maintain individuality and freedom amid external pressures.

“Rolling my third eye into the back

Of my head and squinting through the black

Saw no center, saw not where it lead

It’s times like this that make me wish that

I wished that I were dead, I don’t wish I were dead

But somebody’s got to go”

This verse delves into a darker realm, exploring the hidden depths of our minds. The artist metaphorically rolls his “third eye” to confront the unknown. He experiences confusion and a sense of lost direction. The lyrics touch upon the desire to escape the struggles of life, while also acknowledging the importance of facing these challenges.

The Cotard Delusion and Buddhism

The title, “Cotard’s Solution (Anatta​/​Dukkha​/​Anicca),” alludes to the Cotard Delusion, a mental disorder where one believes they are already dead. This delusion reflects the themes of non-self (Anatta), suffering (Dukkha), and impermanence (Anicca), which are the “Three Marks of Existence” in Buddhism.

Anatta challenges the concept of a fixed “self,” suggesting that our identity is fluid and ever-changing. Dukkha recognizes that suffering is an inherent part of life. And Anicca highlights the impermanence of all things, encouraging us to embrace change rather than cling to what is fleeting.

Personal Reflection

This song has had a profound impact on me personally, as it explores themes that resonate deeply with my own experiences. It has made me reflect on the fear of change and the struggle to maintain a sense of self in the face of external pressures. It has reminded me of the importance of embracing the unknown and the impermanence of life.

Listening to “Cotard’s Solution (Anatta​/​Dukkha​/​Anicca)” by Will Wood and the Tapeworms is not just a listening experience; it is an introspective journey. It encourages us to question our own identities, face our fears, and find meaning in the chaos of existence.

Conclusion

“Cotard’s Solution (Anatta​/​Dukkha​/​Anicca)” is a song that goes beyond entertainment and touches upon fundamental aspects of human existence. Its thought-provoking lyrics and references to the Cotard Delusion and Buddhist concepts of non-self, suffering, and impermanence make it a powerful expression of the complexities of life. It is through songs like this that we can find solace, understanding, and a deeper connection to our own journey.

Credits

Album title: SELF-iSH (2016)

Credits

• Produced By Kevin Antreassian
• Written By Will Wood
• Theremin by Mike Bottiglieri
• Guitar by Mike Bottiglieri
• Release Date August 23, 2016
• Interpolations: “Dr. Sunshine is Dead” by Will Wood and the Tapeworms (Featuring Alex Nauth)
• Translations: “Cotard’s Solution (Anatta​/​Dukkha​/​Anicca)” by Will Wood and The Tapeworms – (Русский перевод) by Genius Russian Translations (Русские переводы)