Meaning of "The Forfeit" by After The Burial

The lyrics of "The Forfeit" delve into themes of betrayal, toxicity, and redemption. The speaker is clearly addressing someone who has caused harm with their words, infecting those they claimed to care for. The lyrics express a sense of loss and disillusionment, as the speaker sheds their faith and realizes the harm caused by blindly following someone or something. There is a call to reclaim agency and power, to unite in solidarity against immoral influences and false worship. The imagery of righteous hands rising to redeem serves as a powerful metaphor for overcoming adversity and reclaiming one's sense of self. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest a cleansing process, washing away the negative influences and finding new hope and strength in unity and the rejection of toxic behaviors. The final lines about burning spores and the ashes burying the source of harm symbolize a finality and closure, the destruction of that which caused pain and the ability to move forward unburdened.