Arithmetic Quote by Tom Waits
“Arithmetic arithmetock Turn the hands back on the clock How does the ocean rock the boat? How did the razor find my throat? The only strings that hold me here Are tangled up around the pier.”
About This Quote
Source Song: “Arithmetic Arithmetock”, 1992
The lyrics juxtapose surreal images to convey feelings of entanglement and existential uncertainty.
In simple terms: Strange metaphors express feeling stuck and confused.
Key Takeaway
Embrace ambiguity and seek clarity.
Themes
art
existentialism
creativity
music
Mood
melancholic
enigmatic
Type
poetic
reflective
When to use this quote
- songwriting
- visual art
- therapy
- philosophical discussion
Key Concepts
surrealism
identity
conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal “strings” hold you back?
- How can you untangle them?
A Different Perspective
Interpretation may be subjective and obscure concrete meaning.
![“It's called a sea anchor,' [Evanlyn] explained. 'It'll stop us drifting too far.' Alyss was impressed. 'And you said you were pig-ignorant when it came to boats.' 'I don't remember saying that,' Evanlyn replied with a frown. Alyss shrugged. 'Oh? Well, it must have been me.” quote by John Flanagan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c11/john-flanagan-904_anchors_it-s-called-a-sea-anchor-evanlyn-explain_1426534.jpg)
