Meaning of Machine Bitez #17 by Gorillaz

"Machine Bitez #17" by Gorillaz may be a short and seemingly insignificant interlude in their discography, but it still manages to convey some thought-provoking ideas. The overall theme of the song appears to revolve around the concept of omnipresence and how it can be applied to various aspects of life. With a touch of humor and some clever wordplay, the lyrics take us on a journey that explores the presence of gods, the absence of presents, and even personal identity.One standout line in the song is, "Valley of the Pagan, what's the meaning behind that, y'know? It means that god is in everything and at the same time nowhere." This lyric introduces the concept of a "Valley of the Pagan" and the idea that divinity is present in everything, yet simultaneously nonexistent. It sets the stage for an exploration of what it means to believe in a higher power and how that belief shapes our perception of the world.Another important line that adds depth to the song is, "Omnipresent, omnipresent. That's the best kind of present to have." Here, the wordplay between "omnipresent" and "present" highlights the irony that omnipresence, the state of being everywhere at once, is considered the best kind of "present." It delves into the paradoxes we face in our desires for tangible gifts and intangible spiritual connections.Interestingly, the conversation between the band members continues with the contrast between Christmas, a popular holiday associated with gift-giving, and being a pagan. The discussion implies that as a pagan, there may not be Christmas presents, but it also hints at the possibility of a different kind of present, one that is not material or tied to a specific holiday.The song then takes a humorous turn with the line, "I think I might be a bit pagan. I've always thought that. Yeah, I reckon about, uh, two-thirds pagan. Yeah, and what's the other third? Uh, Croydon." This unexpected twist introduces the idea that personal identity can come with different aspects, with a humorous nod towards the band member's hometown, Croydon.In summary, "Machine Bitez #17" from Gorillaz explores themes of omnipresence, gift-giving, personal beliefs, and identity. It challenges our preconceived notions of both spirituality and materialism, while injecting a touch of humor. The song prompts us to question our own beliefs and how they shape our interactions with the world. While it may seem like a small interlude in the Gorillaz discography, it serves as a reminder that introspection and contemplation can be found even in the most unexpected places.