When it comes to intricate songwriting, few bands can match Tool. The band’s music is deep and complex, meant to be analyzed and interpreted many times over. One of their most famous songs, “Forty Six And 2”, is no exception.

Written by Tool’s frontman Maynard James Keenan, “Forty Six And 2” is a song that delves deep into the human psyche. It speaks about the evolution of mankind and how we are constantly changing. Here’s a closer look at the meaning behind this iconic song.

The Title: Forty Six And 2

The first thing that stands out about “Forty Six And 2” is the unusual title. What does it mean? The answer lies in biology.

Human beings have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which carry all of our genetic material. Each chromosome has a unique number, from 1 to 23. The 23rd pair is known as the sex chromosomes, and determines whether a person is male or female.

However, there is a theory that suggests that humans could evolve to have an additional pair of chromosomes, bringing the total number to 46. This new pair would supposedly trigger new abilities and levels of consciousness in humans.

The “2” in the title refers to this potential new pair of chromosomes, hence “Forty Six And 2”.

The Theme: Evolution

“Forty Six And 2” is all about evolution – physically, mentally, and spiritually. The song suggests that mankind is on the brink of a new phase of evolution, one that will allow us to become more in tune with the universe.

The lyrics of the song refer to the process of shedding old layers and embracing new ones. The opening lines go:

“Join in my, join in / Let your feelings win / But know that I am with you / Every step of the way”

Here, Keenan is inviting listeners to join him on the journey of evolution, to embrace their emotions and let them guide them. He assures them that he will be there with them every step of the way.

The Shadow Self

One of the most fascinating aspects of “Forty Six And 2” is its discussion of the shadow self. The shadow self is a concept from psychology that refers to the parts of our personalities that we hide away from the world.

The song suggests that coming face-to-face with our shadow selves is crucial to our evolution. The lyrics state:

“See my shadow changing / Stretching up and over me / Softly call the colors of the wind”

This is a reference to the idea that we must confront our shadow selves in order to grow and evolve. The shadow self is often seen as a dark, negative force, but Tool suggests that it can help us find our true selves.

The Human Genome Project

The Human Genome Project was an international research effort that aimed to map the entire human genome. It began in 1990 and was completed in 2003. This project had a significant impact on the scientific community, as it offered a greater understanding of the genetic basis of life.

“Forty Six And 2” was written in 1996, while the Human Genome Project was still ongoing. It’s likely that this project influenced Keenan’s decision to include the concept of additional chromosomes in the song.

The project also inspired the line “Show me your perfect face / Or I will not accept you”, which suggests that the more we learn about genetics, the more we may try to control and manipulate our physical appearances.

The Music

Of course, it’s not just the lyrics of “Forty Six And 2” that make it such a compelling song. The music itself is a work of art.

The song opens with a haunting bassline, which is quickly joined by a complex drumbeat. The guitar and vocals enter after a few measures, building the intensity of the song. There are various time signature changes throughout the song, adding to the complexity.

The instrumental section of the song, in particular, is a standout. The guitar solo is inventive and intricate, showcasing the band’s technical prowess.

Conclusion

“Forty Six And 2” is a song that rewards multiple listens. Its themes of evolution, the shadow self, and the potential for genetic change make it one of the most intriguing songs in Tool’s catalog.

The song’s music is just as impressive as its lyrics, with complex instrumental sections that showcase the band’s talents. All in all, “Forty Six And 2” is a testament to Tool’s ability to create music that is both accessible and deeply meaningful.