Meaning of "Building Steam" by Abney Park

"Building Steam" can be interpreted as a metaphor for personal growth and empowerment. The ghost town symbolizes a life that is devoid of vibrancy and individuality, where everyone is the same (clones) and mindlessly follows the same routine. The narrator, however, has reached a breaking point where they refuse to succumb to this monotonous existence any longer.

The lyrics express the narrator's frustration with wasted time and bitter experiences, suggesting that they have allowed themselves to be controlled by others for far too long. By deciding to take action and "make their own machine," they are taking control and actively building momentum to escape the stifling environment.

The repetition of the line "I made my own machine, yes, we're building steam" reinforces the determination and confidence of the narrator. They have found their own way to generate power and propel themselves forward, refusing to be held back by the constraints of the ghost town. The image of "grabbing pliers" and being "lit" symbolizes the narrator's fierce and unstoppable determination.

The mention of vampires and the narrator's need to keep their hand on their gun suggest that there may be external forces or individuals who threaten their freedom and growth. The town's decline and the narrator's intertwined sense of hatred indicate a deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the oppressive environment and the people who uphold it. Through this frustration, the narrator gathers all they can find and attaches it to themselves, implying that they are collecting the tools and resources necessary for their journey.

Overall, "Building Steam" conveys a message of rebellion, self-empowerment, and a refusal to conform to societal expectations. It encourages individuals to break free from stagnation and embrace their own uniqueness, even if it means leaving behind familiar surroundings and embarking on an uncertain path.