Deftones – “Change (In the House of Flies)” Lyrics Meaning

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Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

Ever thought about the intricate meaning behind Deftones’ “Change (In the House of Flies)”? It’s not just about change – it’s about profound transformation, vulnerability, and the struggles that come with it. The song’s vivid imagery and emotions convey a powerful message about shedding one identity to embrace another, even if it’s painful. Now, you might be wondering what this song is about and why it was penned.

Let’s explore the hidden layers together!

“Change (In the House of Flies)” Lyrics Meaning

In this enigmatic track, the lyrics take us on a journey of observation and emotion. The speaker witnesses a change in someone – a transformation into something seemingly insignificant, like a fly. The act of looking away while they’re on fire might reflect a disconnect or avoidance, perhaps due to the intensity of the change. But here’s where it gets interesting: the change isn’t just about losing wings; it’s about gaining life and vibrancy.

As the song progresses, there’s a shift. The speaker takes this transformed individual home and removes their wings, a symbol of constraint or lost freedom. The act of laughing might be a coping mechanism to deal with the discomfort of the transformation, or it could suggest a lack of empathy. This part of the song taps into the idea that transformation isn’t always a smooth or gentle process – it can be messy and challenging.

Then, we’re faced with a moment of introspection. The mention of looking at a cross and looking away introduces religious imagery, potentially signifying inner conflict or guilt. The line about giving the gun and being blown away adds a layer of darkness, implying a struggle with destructive thoughts or a desire for release.

Throughout the song, the theme of feeling alive in the midst of change is palpable. The repeated chorus emphasizes this newfound vitality, suggesting that even though the transformation is complex and painful, it ultimately leads to a sense of being truly alive.

The Story Behind “Change (In the House of Flies)”

So, why did Deftones create this intense masterpiece? While the band members haven’t explicitly detailed the song’s origin, we can speculate based on its emotional depth. The lyrics offer glimpses into inner turmoil, possibly mirroring the songwriter’s personal struggles during that time. The themes of transformation, inner conflict, and the search for a new sense of self might have resonated with their own experiences.

As with many artistic creations, this song could be a way for the songwriter to process their emotions and share their journey with listeners. The mixture of vivid imagery and raw emotion allows us to connect with the song on a deeply human level, even if the specifics of the songwriter’s story remain a mystery.

Intriguing, right? The journey through the layers of “Change (In the House of Flies)” is a reminder that even in the chaos of transformation, there’s an opportunity for newfound vitality. So, whether you’re facing your own changes or simply enjoying the music, remember that every transformation, like a fly shedding its wings, can lead to a more vibrant version of yourself.