Recurring Themes in Literature and Music: Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness and Maynard James Keenan of Tool and A Perfect Circle

In Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness two men enter the wilderness and reach the center of darkness and insanity; only one returns. While reading the novel, the diction and phrasing seems similar to the lyrics of Maynard James Keenan, songwriter for the bands Tool and A Perfect Circle. Upon closer examination of the lyrics, language as well as themes parallel those used in Heart of Darkness. A number of songs demonstrate the themes of reason versus insanity, the insignificance of mankind, uncontrollable lust and desire, and obtaining godlike power. Moreover, Keenan's "Third Eye" applies several themes, including the search for truth, light versus the darkness, rules and rationale, and the expanding of consciousness. Unlike Conrad, however, Keenan believes that looking inward at one's darkest regions will not end in permanent damage and derangement, but rather reconnect oneself to the purity, innocence, and uninhibited individualism of childhood.