The Serpent and the Sea

Inspired by the view of a sunlit river from a mountaintop in landlocked Nepal, flowing towards an unseen but inevitable destination, the story of the Serpent and the Sea was written. It speaks to the journey and the interconnectedness of natural elements, even when they are not immediately visible.

This song tells a profound and allegorical tale about the relationship between a river (the serpent) and the sea. It explores themes of interdependence, selflessness, and the realization of one’s true value in the context of a greater whole.

The serpent, representing the river, initially believes in its own importance, thinking that the sea is dependent on it. This reflects a sense of pride and a lack of awareness about the mutual dependence that exists in nature and the interdependence we have with each other. The sea, on the other hand, acknowledges the serpent’s value and freedom, suggesting a deeper understanding of their interconnectedness but upon acknowledging this the sea never speaks again. The serpent offended it more than it could take.

As the story progresses, the serpent comes to realize that its freedom and ability to flow are intrinsically linked to the sea. This realization brings about a sense of loss and regret, as the serpent understands that it cannot exist independently of the sea but not another word is heard from the sea and to this day the serpect flows unto the sea, no longer really wishing to be free but the sea will never speak again.

The song ultimately conveys a message about the balance between independence and interdependence. It suggests that true freedom and fulfilment come from understanding and embracing our connections with others. The serpent’s journey from pride to realization and acceptance serves as a powerful metaphor for the importance of selflessness and mutual respect in any relationship.

This mythological tale is rich with symbolism and emotion, making it a special and meaningful piece to me. It invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the ways in which they are interconnected with the world around them.