Vincent Poag’ s lyric video for “The Unknown” is an immersive experience that perfectly complements the themes explored in his latest album, The Unknown. The song itself serves as a fitting introduction to the album, blending whimsical surrealism with profound existential questioning. As a whole, The Unknown is an exploration of life’s uncertainties, with each track offering a glimpse into the chaos, beauty, and introspection that shape the human experience. The lyric video for “The Unknown” amplifies this journey, guiding viewers through a visual representation of the album’s core themes.
The song opens with the line, “Buckle up for the ride of your life,” immediately invoking a sense of anticipation and the feeling of being strapped into an unpredictable experience. It’s a playful yet poignant introduction, as Poag seems to suggest that life, much like a rollercoaster, is full of unexpected twists and turns. The imagery continues with “Children getting ready for a rollercoaster,” reinforcing the idea of life as something both thrilling and out of our control. Poag’s ability to juxtapose lighthearted, almost childlike imagery with deeper philosophical questions creates a compelling contrast that runs throughout the song.
As the lyrics unfold, Poag paints a surreal picture of life’s chaos with lines like, “Goliaths play misfits, out on display,” and “The cacophony, cockeyed parade.” These phrases evoke a world that feels off-kilter, where the rules of reality bend, and contradictions reign supreme. It’s a vivid depiction of modern life—one where power structures and societal norms seem out of place, yet we are all caught in the same whirlwind.
The chorus introduces a recurring refrain of confusion and existential questioning: “What the hell’s going on? What am I doing? What am I doing?” It’s a relatable cry of uncertainty, an expression of the inner turmoil many of us face when confronted with the chaos of the world. Poag’s delivery here is both raw and wry, hinting at a mix of frustration and humor, as if acknowledging that sometimes, all we can do is laugh at the absurdity of it all.
Later, the lyrics take on a more introspective tone, with lines like “Relaxed on your couch as the sun goes down, / Shoes off, those you love by your side.” This shift represents a moment of quiet solace in the midst of life’s madness. Poag reminds us that, even when everything around us feels uncertain, there are still moments of peace and connection to be found. The reference to “a cloud of purple haze” serves as another metaphor for the hazy, dreamlike quality of life’s uncertainties, further emphasizing the surreal landscape he’s crafting.
The final lines of the song—“Welcome home to the unknown”—are a bittersweet resolution. It’s both an invitation and a statement of acceptance. Poag suggests that, while we may not have all the answers or understand the mysteries of life, there is a kind of solace in surrendering to the unknown. It’s a sentiment that speaks to the album’s larger theme: that life’s chaos, though overwhelming, is something we must embrace rather than resist.
In “The Unknown,” Vincent Poag not only captures the confusion and beauty of life’s journey but also offers a comforting reminder that the answers may not matter as much as the ride itself. Through his vivid imagery, relatable anxieties, and moments of introspective peace, Poag invites listeners to explore the questions that define our shared existence, making “The Unknown” a song that resonates on both a personal and universal level.the unknown.
