Meaning of "White Walls" by Between The Buried And Me

"White Walls" delves into the struggle of artists to maintain their authenticity in an industry that often prioritizes image and conformity. The opening lines suggest that the monsters that exist within all individuals have been brought to the surface, implying that artists are capable of succumbing to the same vices as anyone else. The repetition of "The whores take the stage" emphasizes the idea that performers are often expected to play a role or cater to certain expectations in order to captivate an audience. This is further reinforced by the line "Don't show them who you truly are," questioning whether honesty and genuine connection are valued by the audience.

The lyrics also criticize the idea of placing oneself above others and seeking worship and devotion. The reference to peasants suggests a sense of superiority that artists may feel, as they expect their fans to idolize them. However, the lyrics question the purpose and value of this worship, suggesting that it may simply be a means of comforting individuals in their everyday lives. This critique can be extended to the "greed-driven carnival" of the music industry, where artists are often seen as puppets forced to replicate a tired sound for profit. The mention of Camilla implies that even if a popular figure or sound is chosen, it doesn't guarantee genuine artistic expression or innovation.

The lines "Step back, evaluate, recognize" call for introspection and self-reflection within the industry. It suggests the need to break free from the cyclic nature of the music world and introduce new ideas to escape the closed circle of conformity. The repeated phrase "We are part of" acknowledges that the artists themselves are trapped within this system and must find a way to break free.

The conclusion of the lyrics reflects on the legacy that will be left behind after death. It suggests that the music created by the artist is all that remains and will be remembered. The repeated chanting of "White walls" at the end can be interpreted as a metaphor for the constraints and limitations within the music industry, urging listeners to break free from these boundaries and strive for something new.