What Can I Do
Chris Cohen Lyrics

The lyrics of Chris Cohen's song "What Can I Do" explore themes of introspection, existential questioning, and a sense of helplessness in a complex and interconnected world.

The first few lines, "New moon circles around, a transmission from forest fire, fills the void (New summer view), no words, cosmic time," set a tone of mystery and contemplation. It seems to suggest a cyclical nature of life and the presence of something significant, possibly a message or a revelation, coming from a source of destruction or chaos. The mention of "sperm bank of America" and "egos drive down avenues, gross revenue" hints at societal constructs and the pursuit of material wealth that coexist with the existential questioning in the song.

The repeated refrain of "What can I do?" expresses a feeling of helplessness and uncertainty in the face of these existential musings. The following lines, "Helpless, haunted by the inherited character in my jeans and in my shoes, in my attitude," further emphasize this sense of being shaped by external influences, suggesting that one's character and attitudes are not solely their own but rather inherited from their upbringing and culture.

The final lines, "Plucked from branches and spawned into the night, unaware of the subtleties I'll find, I'm upended from nature and a light is shining," evoke a sense of being disconnected from nature and the natural order of things. It suggests a longing or a realization that there is more to discover and understand about oneself and the world.

Overall, "What Can I Do" invites reflection on the human condition, the constraints imposed on individuals by society, and the longing to find meaning and connection in a complex and ever-changing world.