This piece is drawing a picture of someone losing themselves, grappling with internal demons and failed aspirations. It’s about the haunting realization of unfulfilled potential, symbolized by the vivid imagery of wolves, leeches, and snakes. These creatures metaphorically represent the darker aspects of human nature and society’s predatory tendencies. This song isn’t just about an individual; it’s a commentary on the universal struggle of maintaining one’s identity in a world that often feels cold and unyielding.
There’s a raw, untamed beauty in understanding the layers of a song like this. It’s more than just words; it’s a story, an emotion, a piece of art waiting to be unraveled.
“And the Snakes Start to Sing” Lyrics Meaning
The song starts with a confession of loss: “I’ve lost a part of me.” This sets the tone for a deep dive into the psyche of someone who feels fragmented and incomplete. As the song progresses, the lyrics “Tell your friends to sharpen their teeth” and “Wolves come out of the woodwork” suggest a world filled with betrayal and opportunism, a theme that resonates with many.
The chorus, “And the snakes start to sing,” uses snakes as a metaphor for deceptive voices, either from within or from society, leading one into a spiral of self-doubt and despair. The imagery of animals throughout the song isn’t just for dramatic effect; it’s a mirror to our own world, reflecting the predatory and cunning aspects of human nature.
The line “Do you feel the chair clawing at the back of your neck?” evokes a sense of paranoia and anxiety, enhancing the song’s theme of internal turmoil. It’s as if the song itself becomes a battleground for the soul.
The repeated lines “Would’ve been, could’ve been, should’ve been, never was and never ever will be” reveal a profound sense of regret and missed opportunities. It’s a lament for what might have been, a common feeling for many who reflect on their life choices.
The song ends on a note that suggests resignation but also a spark of defiance: “If you can’t soar with the eagles, then don’t fly with the flock.” This could be interpreted as an acceptance of one’s limitations or a challenge to rise above the mediocrity and expectations of society.
The Story Behind “And the Snakes Start to Sing”
The band’s lead singer, Oli Sykes, has openly discussed his battles with addiction and mental health. This song could be seen as an artistic expression of those battles, a way to process and communicate his inner turmoil. The lyrical content suggests a deep introspection and a confrontation with personal demons.
The vivid imagery of animals and the recurring themes of despair and lost potential suggest that the song is a personal narrative and a commentary on the human condition. It reflects the universal struggle of trying to find one’s place in a world that often feels alienating and harsh.
The lyrics’ introspective nature suggests that they were written during a period of self-evaluation and realization for the songwriter. This song is more than just a melody; it’s a cathartic expression of the pain and confusion that often accompany life’s journey.