The meaning of Forty Six & 2 by Tool

"Forty Six & 2" is a song by American rock band Tool, from their 1996 EP of the same name. The song's lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the societal pressures that drive individuals to conform and fit in.

The opening lines "All your doubts and fears / Will soon be clear / In a world where we all have to fit" set the tone for the rest of the song, which explores the idea that society places a great deal of emphasis on fitting in and being part of the crowd. The lyrics go on to describe the ways in which people try to escape this pressure by seeking solace in superficial things like material possessions or fleeting relationships.

The song's title "Forty Six & 2" is often seen as a reference to the number of chromosomes that make up human DNA, but it can also be interpreted as a commentary on the way in which society tries to reduce complex individuals down to simple numbers and categories. The song's message is one of rebellion against this kind of reductionism, encouraging listeners to reject the pressure to conform and instead embrace their individuality.

Throughout the song, lead vocalist Maynard James Keenan's distinctive vocals deliver a sense of urgency and frustration, as he rails against the societal pressures that drive people to fit in. The music itself is complex and intricate, with drummer Danny Carey's signature polyrhythms and guitarist Adam Jones' soaring melodies combining to create a sense of tension and release.

Overall, "Forty Six & 2" is a powerful critique of modern society's emphasis on conformity, and a call to arms for listeners to reject the pressure to fit in and instead embrace their own uniqueness. As such, it remains one of Tool's most beloved and enduring songs.