There were signs up in the sky
When we gathered by the garden wall
Everybody on his best behavior
Listening for the altar call

High priest of Salem in his robes
Ranting out the coming of the Day
Ravens at the gates
Frightening all the visitors away

I lay down by the water
Dreamed a dream of where I come from
Old things made new
Waiting for you

There were wooden wind-chimes rustling
In the trees above the anthills on the dunes
On the high winds we could hear them
Old familiar tunes

The little bit of faith we had once
Like the memory of a movie
They got burned up the great fire
Reassembling itself slowly but surely

I lay down by the water
Dreamed a dream of where I come from
Old things made new
Waiting for you

Overall Meaning

The Mountain Goats's song "New Zion" is a song that speaks of a new beginning, a rebirth of sorts. The lyrics talk of being in the presence of a High Priest of Salem who is issuing a call to pay attention to what is to come. The atmosphere is tense as the visitors are frightened by the ravens that have gathered at the gates. The singer, however, lies down by the water and dreams of where they come from. The imagery here is of nostalgia and a feeling of being lost and seeking something familiar.

The song continues with the singer talking about how the little bit of faith they once had is just a distant memory. This could be interpreted as a reflection on how the world has changed and how the singer has lost touch with their spirituality. However, there is hope as the singer sings about how old things are made new and they are waiting for someone. This shows the singer's willingness to start anew and make a connection with something meaningful.

Overall, The Mountain Goats's song "New Zion" is a portrayal of a journey towards a new beginning. The lyrics are descriptive and create vivid imagery, which helps the listener envision the story being told. It is a song of hope and new possibilities, and the dream-like quality of the lyrics makes it all the more immersive and rich.

Line by Line Meaning

There were signs up in the sky
The sky presented symbols of hope or warning

When we gathered by the garden wall
People assembled by a protective barrier

Everybody on his best behavior
All were on good conduct

Listening for the altar call
Eagerly anticipating a religious summons

High priest of Salem in his robes
Leader in religious vestments

Ranting out the coming of the Day
Discussing an impending judgement or eschaton

Ravens at the gates
Birds perched near the entrance

Frightening all the visitors away
Scaring off the guests

I lay down by the water
I relaxed beside the river

Dreamed a dream of where I come from
Imagining my place of origin

Old things made new
Antiquated matter revitalized