Everything Zen - Remastered

The overall theme of the song digs into feelings of apathy and confusion in modern life. It feels like a commentary on how people chase superficial things, like fame or wealth, while missing the deeper meaning or true connection. The repeated insistence of "everything zen" contrasts with the chaos and dissatisfaction expressed throughout the lyrics, highlighting a struggle between wanting peace and feeling stuck.

Verse 1

There must be something we can eat
Maybe find another lover
Should I fly to Los Angeles
Find my asshole brother

In this opening verse, the lyrics set a tone of desperation and restlessness. The mention of searching for something to eat or a new lover suggests a yearning for fulfillment, but it feels hollow. The reference to flying to Los Angeles, a place often associated with dreams and success, feels ironic when paired with the idea of finding a problematic brother. It hints at the emptiness behind the glitz and glamor of big cities.

Chorus

Try to see it once my way
Everything zen
Everything zen
I don't think so

The chorus is a powerful repetition that captures the essence of the song. The phrase "everything zen" implies a calm acceptance of life’s chaos, but the addition of "I don't think so" pushes back against that idea. It shows a refusal to accept a superficial peace when real issues and dissatisfaction are present. This creates a tension between wanting to be okay and recognizing the reality of discontent.

Verse 2

Raindogs howl for the century
A million dollars a steak
As you search for your demi-god
And you fake with a saint

This verse amplifies the theme of absurdity in modern life. The “raindogs” could symbolize lost souls, howling for attention in a world that seems indifferent. The line about a million-dollar steak points to excess and the ridiculousness of valuing material things over genuine experiences. Searching for a demi-god and faking with a saint suggests that people often idolize false ideals, trying to find purpose in things that don’t offer real satisfaction.

Chorus

There's no sex in your violence
There's no sex in your violence
There's no sex in your violence
There's no sex in your violence

Repeating this line emphasizes a stark message about the futility of violence and aggression without emotional connection. It suggests that even in chaos, there’s a lack of genuine passion or essence. This repetition adds weight to the critique of society’s fixation on violence, underscoring how it ultimately leads to emptiness rather than fulfillment.

Bridge

I don't believe that Elvis is dead
I don't believe that Elvis is dead
I don't believe that Elvis is, Elvis is

This bridge brings in a playful yet poignant idea. The mention of Elvis, a cultural icon, points to how people often cling to myths and legends, refusing to let go of the past. It’s almost a rebellious stance against accepting reality. This part feels like a pop culture reference that connects to the broader theme of denial and the search for truth in a world filled with contradictions.

Chorus

Try to see it once my way
Everything zen
Everything zen
I don't think so

Repeating the chorus again reinforces the central conflict of the song. The frustration is palpable. The listener is left with the feeling that accepting a calm facade doesn’t solve the deeper issues at play. This insistent questioning invites the audience to reflect on their own lives and beliefs.

Outro

Zen
Zen
I don't think so
I don't think so
I don't think so
Zen

The outro circles back to the idea of "zen," repeating it in a way that feels almost sarcastic. It’s a final push against the notion of accepting everything as peaceful and perfect. The insistence of “I don’t think so” leaves a lasting impression, suggesting that true understanding and acceptance come from confronting reality, not shying away from it.

Closing Thoughts

"Everything Zen" is a clever mix of humor and critique about modern life. Bush captures a sense of ennui that many can relate to, while also poking fun at the absurdities of chasing after fame and ideals. The song’s catchy chorus and pointed lyrics make it memorable, urging listeners to question the status quo and find deeper meaning beyond surface-level contentment.