The Meaning Behind The Song: Judith by A Perfect Circle

April 2024 · 3 minute read

Introduction

Music has the power to make us feel emotions that we can’t express in words. It speaks to our souls, and it has the ability to connect us to the world and individuals around us.

Table of Contents

One band that is particularly great at creating music that resonates with people is A Perfect Circle. Their song “Judith” is a testament to the band’s ability to create music that is both emotionally evocative and intellectually challenging.

Background

A Perfect Circle is an American rock band formed in 1999. The band’s lineup includes guitarist Billy Howerdel, who worked as a guitar tech for Nine Inch Nails, Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan, and bassist David Bottrill.

“Judith” is a song from their debut album, “Mer de Noms,” which was released on May 23, 2000. The album debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 and was certified platinum by the RIAA in just six months.

The Meaning Behind “Judith”

“Judith” is a song about Maynard James Keenan’s mother, Judith Marie Keenan, who suffered a stroke and was left paralyzed for the rest of her life. The lyrics of the song express Keenan’s frustration with religion and the idea of a higher power.

The opening lines of the song set the tone for the rest of the lyrics. Keenan sings, “You’re such an inspiration for the ways that I’ll never ever choose to be.” These lines convey the feeling that Keenan has a deep respect for his mother but that he does not want to follow in her footsteps.

The chorus of the song is particularly powerful. Keenan sings, “It’s not like you killed someone. It’s not like you drove a hateful spear into his side. Praise the one who left you broken down and paralyzed. He did it all for you.”

These lyrics are a direct reference to Jesus and the crucifixion. Keenan is calling out the hypocrisy of religion. He is questioning the idea that a higher power would allow his mother to suffer in the way that she has.

The Music Video

The music video for “Judith” was directed by David Fincher and features Maynard James Keenan’s mother, Judith Marie Keenan. The video shows Judith Marie Keenan writhing and moving her limbs while strapped to a wheelchair.

The video’s imagery is a representation of the frustration and anger that Keenan feels over his mother’s paralysis. It’s a powerful statement that shows that even the most innocent can be struck down by tragedy, and it calls into question the idea of a benevolent deity.

Conclusion

A Perfect Circle’s “Judith” is a prime example of the power that music possesses. It speaks to the disillusionment and frustration many people feel with religion and a higher power. Through the lyrics and music video, Maynard James Keenan is able to express his pain and feelings on the subject of religion.

“Judith” is a song that has resonated with countless people around the world. It has been covered by various musicians and received critical acclaim. It will continue to inspire and connect people for years to come. As Keenan once said, “We’re trying to inspire people to think for themselves and not be sheep, blindly following anybody’s lead.”

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