The Meaning Behind The Song: Knocking on Forbidden Doors by Enigma
The song “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” by German new age musical project Enigma, from their album “The Cross of Changes,” was released in 1993. The album sold millions of copies worldwide and is known for its unique fusion of Gregorian chants, modern beats, and world music elements.
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The song “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” is a mystical and philosophical exploration of the human desire to seek knowledge and truth, despite the societal and cultural barriers that often deter us. The song’s lyrics, coupled with the haunting melody, create a feeling of intrigue, curiosity, and mystery, drawing the listener into the deep meaning behind the song.
The Lyrics
The song’s opening lyrics set the tone for the rest of the piece, with the line “Through space and time, I always wonder where I am.” This line creates a sense of disorientation and questioning, as if the narrator is searching for something beyond the physical world.
As the song progresses, the lyrics become more profound. “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” references various philosophical and spiritual traditions, including the Tao, the Bible, and the Quran. The lyrics mention the “Tree of Life,” a symbol found in many mystical traditions that represents the interconnectedness of all beings.
The Music
The song’s music reinforces the mystical themes found in the lyrics. The use of Gregorian chants and other vocals, paired with electronic beats and world music instruments, creates a sense of otherworldliness and transcendence.
The lyrics are sung in a whispery, almost ethereal tone, which enhances the song’s sense of mystery and spirituality. The music feels both ancient and modern, creating a unique combination of sounds that is instantly recognizable as Enigma’s signature style.
The Message
The message behind “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” is one of seeking and exploration. The song encourages listeners to push past cultural and societal barriers in order to discover the truth. It speaks to the human desire to know more, to reach beyond the mundane, and to find deeper meaning and understanding in life.
The song’s message is particularly relevant in today’s world, where cultural differences can often create divides between people. “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” reminds us that, no matter where we come from or what traditions we follow, we are all part of a larger whole, connected by our desire to understand the world around us.
The Legacy
“Knocking on Forbidden Doors” is just one example of Enigma’s unique sound and mystical sensibility. The band’s music has influenced countless artists in the decades since its release, from ambient and new age musicians to pop and electronic artists.
Enigma’s music has also been popular in film and television, with their songs appearing in movies like Sliver and television shows like Chicago Hope and Navy NCIS.
The band’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of listeners, who are drawn to the sense of mystery and spirituality found in their music.
FAQs
1. What does the title “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” mean?
The title of the song refers to the human desire to seek knowledge and truth, no matter the cultural or societal barriers that may stand in the way. The act of “knocking on forbidden doors” represents the desire to explore beyond the known and to push past the limitations placed on us by society.
2. What inspired Enigma to write this song?
Enigma’s music is heavily influenced by spiritual and philosophical ideas, and “Knocking on Forbidden Doors” is no exception. The song speaks to the band’s desire to explore the deeper questions of existence and to challenge conventional thinking.
3. What other Enigma songs have a similar sound and message?
Many of Enigma’s songs explore similar themes of spirituality, transcendence, and seeking knowledge. Some other popular Enigma songs include “Return to Innocence,” “Sadness (Part One),” and “Sadeness (Part Two).”
4. Who is the lead singer of Enigma?
Enigma’s lead singer is Michael Cretu, a Romanian musician and producer who founded the band in the early 1990s.
5. What other artists are similar to Enigma?
Enigma’s unique sound has influenced a variety of other artists, including Sacred Spirit, Deep Forest, and Delerium.
6. What other albums did Enigma release?
Enigma has released a total of seven studio albums, including “MCMXC a.D.,” “Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi!,” and “A Posteriori.”
7. What other famous songs feature Gregorian chants?
Gregorian chants have been used in a variety of different musical genres, from classical music to heavy metal. Some other popular songs featuring Gregorian chants include “Adiemus” by Karl Jenkins and “Now We Are Free” by Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard.
8. What is the meaning of the “Tree of Life” symbol?
The “Tree of Life” is a symbol found in many spiritual and mystical traditions, including Kabbalah, Christianity, and Native American spirituality. It represents the interconnectedness of all living things and the idea that everything is part of a larger, unified whole.
9. What sets Enigma apart from other musical acts?
Enigma’s unique fusion of Gregorian chants, electronic beats, and world music instruments creates a sound that is instantly recognizable. The band’s lyrics and themes also set them apart, exploring deep questions of spirituality and existence.
10. What impact has Enigma had on the music industry?
Enigma’s music has influenced countless other artists in a variety of different genres, from ambient and new age music to pop and electronic. The band’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of listeners, who are drawn to the sense of mystery and spirituality found in their music.
11. What is the history of new age music?
New age music emerged in the 1970s as a genre of music that was intended to promote relaxation, meditation, and holistic wellness. It drew inspiration from a variety of different musical styles, including classical, jazz, and world music.
12. What other new age musicians should I listen to?
Some other popular new age musicians include Yanni, Enya, Kitaro, and Jean-Michel Jarre. Each of these artists offers a unique take on the genre, combining elements of classical, electronic, and world music to create a sound that is both relaxing and inspiring.
