[Philopera] I Know That I Know Not

This opera embodies the philosophical spirit of Socrates, whose paradoxical wisdom begins not with certainty, but with humility. The soprano’s solitary voice confesses that true understanding is born at the moment when the illusion of knowledge collapses. “I know that I know not” is not resignation, but liberation: the shedding of false authority, pride, and borrowed truths. Through tears and restraint, the music reveals that wisdom is not accumulation, but openness — a courage to dwell in questioning. In acknowledging ignorance, the self becomes honest, porous, and awake. The rising light from the chest symbolizes an inner awakening where humility replaces dominance, and listening replaces speaking. This opera suggests that philosophy is not abstract argument, but a deeply human act of vulnerability: to stand before oneself, unarmed by answers, and begin again from truth.

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[Lyrics]
I look into my mirror of silence...
And the eyes I see — they tremble, asking:
Who are you, when your wisdom fades?
Who are you, when your truths dissolve?

I sought the stars for answers,
But they only whispered back —
"Know thyself… know thyself…"

And yet, I know nothing.
My knowledge is a fog upon the dawn.
Every question I hold
Falls apart in my trembling hands.

I know that I know not!
Yes, I know that I know not!
And in that wound, I breathe again.
O fragile truth, O sacred doubt —
I am free, because I am small.

I walked with pride once —
wearing robes of false wisdom,
calling shadows by the name of “truth.”

But when silence answered louder than words,
I fell to my knees before the light.
O voice within me,
you tear my heart to teach me peace!

Every failure became my teacher,
Every ignorance my crown.
And I weep — not for loss,
but for the dawn that follows doubt.

I know that I know not!
Yes, I know that I know not!
Let the heavens hear this cry!
In my ignorance, I am born anew!

Tear me open, O truth divine!
Let my unknowing be my guide!

What if the wisest soul
is the humblest child in the dust?
What if the brightest star
is the one unseen at dawn?

O God of silence…
teach me how to listen.

I know that I know not!
I know that I know not!
And in this nothing — I find my all!

Know thyself… know thyself…
the echo fades into light…


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