Meaning of "Crawl" by Breaking Benjamin

The lyrics of "Crawl" delve into themes of resilience, inner strength, and the consequences of being deceived. The repetitive phrase "I am holding on, still holding on" highlights the narrator's determination to persevere despite the challenging circumstances they face. The references to a "shadow of a man" and feeling like "nothing less" suggest a sense of diminished self-worth caused by the untrustworthy actions of another person. The lyrics vividly describe the deceptive individual as having "faceless lies," a "weak, dead heart," and "black, dead eyes," emphasizing their lack of authenticity and emotional connection. The narrator expresses their refusal to be dragged down by this person's manipulations, stating, "I'll make it through, but not this time." There is a sense of shared loss as the lyrics proclaim, "Your hope is gone, and so is mine," suggesting that both parties have been hurt by the deception.

The chorus of the song packs a punch, using powerful imagery and emotions to convey the narrator's defiance. Phrases such as "Sick! Blind! Love left behind" and "Your weak, wicked lie" reflect the bitterness and resentment felt towards the deceitful individual. The repetition of the lines "Live! Fight! Crawl back inside!" conveys the narrator's refusal to succumb to the manipulator's influence and their determination to overcome the pain inflicted upon them.

Towards the end of the song, the lyrics take a darker turn, with the narrator acknowledging the potential for becoming a monster themselves. The line "After it all, you'll try to break me too" suggests a cyclical nature to the deceit and betrayal, with the narrator acknowledging that they may become the very thing they despise. However, this self-awareness does not deter them from seeking revenge, as they proclaim, "I brought you to life so I can hear you scream." This line implies a desire for the manipulator to face the consequences of their actions, suggesting a complex mix of emotions and motivations within the narrator.

Overall, "Crawl" by Breaking Benjamin explores themes of resilience, betrayal, and the potential for darkness within oneself. The lyrics depict the narrator's struggle to maintain their own identity and strength in the face of deception, as well as their conflicting desires for revenge and personal growth.