Meaning of What Is That You See by Radiohead

In the legendary discography of Radiohead, "What Is That You See" stands out as a mesmerizing piece that provokes thought and contemplation. The song delves into various themes, unveiling a vivid tapestry of emotions and concepts. At its core, "What Is That You See" explores the nature of perception and the human desire for connection. Through meticulously crafted lyrics, Radiohead manages to unravel unexpected and imaginative themes that all tie back to the overarching theme of the song.One standout lyric from the song is "Big church wall, making some noise with a pair of drums." This line introduces the idea of contrasting forces and the human longing to break free from societal constraints. The big church wall symbolizes the structures and dogmas that confine individuals, while the noise created by the pair of drums represents rebellion and self-expression. By juxtaposing these elements, Radiohead highlights the tension between the desire for freedom and the constraints of society.Continuing the exploration of perception, the lyric "I see the grass is still when we made our beds" uncovers the fragile nature of memories. It suggests that time freezes in our subjective experiences, with the grass remaining unchanged when significant moments occur. This lyric invites the listener to reflect on the impermanence of life and the poignant way in which memories shape our perception of reality. Moreover, it emphasizes the significance of personal experiences in our understanding of the world around us.The following line, "I see the holy Jesus and the Pharaoh and the Venus, and the ghost of you and me," dives into the theme of spirituality and the human search for meaning. It evokes a sense of intrigue and mystery as Radiohead brings together religious and mythological figures. The inclusion of the ghost of the listener and the singer creates a haunting and ethereal atmosphere, suggesting the influence of past relationships and encounters in our spiritual journeys. This lyric prompts us to contemplate our connections to the divine and the significance of our interactions with others in shaping our beliefs and understanding of the world.Another intriguing lyric in the song is "There’s something up there but I don’t know what the hell it is." This line delves into the theme of the unknown and the human fascination with exploration and discovery. It speaks to the inherent curiosity within us, constantly pushing us to seek answers beyond what is immediately visible. This sense of wonder and the excitement of the unknown can fuel our desire for knowledge, challenging us to question our surroundings and understand the mysteries that lie beyond our reach.The closing line, "Like the sun, wrapping your fingers around my neck," brings the themes of perception, connection, and spirituality together in a powerful way. It metaphorically portrays the intensity and encompassing nature of love and desire. The sun symbolizes a radiant and all-encompassing force, while the act of wrapping fingers around one's neck suggests an intimate and consuming connection. This lyric conveys the overwhelming emotional impact that love can have on an individual, blurring the boundaries between self and other."What Is That You See" is a profound and thought-provoking song that tackles universal themes with poetic artistry. The unexpected and imaginative themes explored throughout the lyrics unveil the intricacies of perception, the longing for connection, the search for meaning, the fascination with the unknown, and the overwhelming power of love. Radiohead's ability to paint a vivid picture through their words invites listeners to engage in introspection and contemplation, leaving an indelible mark on their minds and hearts.