Song of Sophia
Dead Can Dance Lyrics


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With one wish we wake the will
Within wisdom.
With one will we wish the wisdom
Within waking.
Woken, wishing, willing.




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Dead Can Dance's song "Song of Sophia" are both poetic and philosophical. The song contemplates the interplay between will and wisdom, suggesting that the two are interconnected and dependent on one another. The first two lines, "With one wish we wake the will / Within wisdom" suggest that it is through our desire (or wish) that we are able to tap into our willpower. Additionally, this willpower is found within wisdom, implying that there is a kind of knowledge or understanding that is necessary to access our will.


The next two lines, "With one will we wish the wisdom / Within waking" turn the previous lines on their head. Here, the song implies that it is through our will (our determination or intention) that we are able to acquire wisdom. Moreover, this wisdom is found within our waking state, suggesting that there is something about being conscious and present that enables us to gain knowledge and understanding.


Taken as a whole, these lyrics suggest that will and wisdom are intertwined and mutually reinforcing. It is through our desire and intention that we are able to access our willpower, and it is through our willpower that we are able to gain knowledge and insight. By combining these elements—wishing, waking, willing—we are able to tap into a deep source of inner strength and wisdom.


Line by Line Meaning

With one wish we wake the will
By making a single heartfelt desire, we awaken the strength of our determination within ourselves.


Within wisdom, with one will we wish the wisdom
By attaining higher intellectual insight, we are able to use our inner strength to ask for further enlightenment.


Within waking, woken wishing, willing
Through self-awareness and consciousness, we become invigorated by our desires and become resolved to achieve them.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: BRENDAN PERRY, LISA GERARD

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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