Meaning of "Salt On A Slug" by Black Flag

The lyrics of "Salt On A Slug" by Black Flag can be interpreted as a metaphor for the cycle of abuse and the dehumanization of the vulnerable by those in power. The speaker's sadistic experiment on the slug mirrors how individuals in positions of power may derive pleasure from causing pain and suffering to those who are weaker or different from them. The initial fascination and eventual revulsion of the speaker symbolize the desensitization that can occur when one is exposed to violence and cruelty, leading to a lack of empathy or remorse. The imagery of the slug trying in vain to escape and the speaker's indifference to its suffering highlight the destructive nature of oppression and the callousness that can arise from it. The final reflection on being dipped in salt can be seen as a moment of self-awareness, where the speaker realizes the potential for their own capacity for cruelty and violence. Overall, the lyrics serve as a powerful commentary on the consequences of unchecked power and the importance of empathy and compassion towards all living beings.