Meaning of "Bury Us All" by As I Lay Dying

The lyrics of "Bury Us All" delve into themes of existentialism, individuality, and resilience against external forces. The speaker acknowledges the impending mortality all humans face, symbolized by the group of people coming with shrouds to bury them all. This imagery suggests a collective destiny and an inherent powerlessness in the face of fate. The mention of being shaped and led by these external forces "before we were born" implies a lack of agency and control over one's own life.

However, the speaker's resolve remains unshaken. They refuse to succumb to the inevitability of their fate, asserting their right to speak out and make a stand while they still have the chance. This highlights the individual's desire for autonomy and self-expression in the face of a predetermined existence. The belief that failing alone is better than dying alongside those who would forget them indicates a rejection of conformity and a determination to stand out, even in the face of oblivion.

Furthermore, the lyrics express a preference for a life filled with suffering and passion rather than a passive existence. This can be interpreted as a call to embrace the full spectrum of human experience, recognizing that passion and suffering are intertwined and essential for a meaningful life. By choosing to suffer now, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living authentically and embracing the intensity of emotions and experiences, rather than settling for a life devoid of passion.

Overall, "Bury Us All" by As I Lay Dying conveys a sense of defiance in the face of mortality and external influences, while also emphasizing the significance of individuality, passion, and the power of one's own choices.