The song "Archimedes" by John Cale tells a story of a person who is cautious and aware of the potential dangers they possess. The lyrics "Keep me away from a naked flame, I am made of vapor and I will explode" suggest that the person is fragile and volatile, symbolizing their emotional state. The line "There's been something rattling in the closet trying to get out" implies that there are buried and suppressed emotions or thoughts that are trying to surface. This could refer to unresolved issues or secrets that the person is trying to keep hidden. The mention of the car antenna missing and cruising the streets hints at a sense of restlessness and a desire to escape or explore. It suggests a metaphorical journey in search of answers or a way to fulfill one's desires. The reference to Archimedes, a renowned Greek mathematician, suggests a connection between the narrator and the pursuit of knowledge and discovery. The line "Archimedes and me both married in our own way to old ideas in new clothes" reflects a commitment to unconventional thinking and a resistance to traditional norms. Additionally, the mention of seeing the desert bloom while driving down Pacific Palisades alludes to Archimedes' famous invention, the Archimedes' screw, which was used for irrigation, transforming arid lands into fertile ones. This could symbolize the narrator's ability to create and inspire positive change in their surroundings. Overall, the song "Archimedes" explores themes of self-discovery, the search for meaning, and the potential for transformation and growth.
