Meaning of "Paralyzed" by Black Flag

The lyrics of "Paralyzed" convey a deep sense of personal struggle and internal turmoil. The repeated phrases emphasizing the inability to move, speak, and shake off troubles paint a picture of someone feeling completely stuck and helpless in their situation. The imagery of being trapped, with walls closing in and curling up inside oneself, reflects a feeling of suffocation and claustrophobia, both physically and emotionally. The reference to being wound up so tight and the soul seeping out suggest a profound sense of inner tension and disconnection from oneself. The repetition of being paralyzed and going blind signifies a loss of direction, vision, and agency, underlining the overwhelming nature of the difficulties being faced. Overall, the lyrics depict a profound state of despair, where the weight of troubles and feelings is so overwhelming that it renders the individual unable to act or even articulate their emotions.