Meaning of "Death & Taxes" by Daniel Caesar

"Death & Taxes" is a contemplative song that explores themes of accountability, redemption, and the duality of human existence. The line, "Surely my sins have found me out, God rest my soul, but show me out" implies a recognition of personal wrongdoing and the desire for forgiveness or a means to make amends. The juxtaposition of asking God to rest their soul while also wanting to be shown a way out suggests the internal conflict many individuals face when confronting their actions.

The line, "Spit on my grave, but kiss my mouth," presents an intriguing contradiction. It showcases a desire for both punishment and love, symbolizing a complex emotional state. It may represent a longing for acceptance despite one's flaws, or perhaps an acknowledgment of the contradictory nature of human desires.

The chorus, "Surely we'll live to see the day, when all of our problems, they fade away," expresses hope for a better future. It speaks to the shared human desire for a resolution to conflicts and challenges. This line suggests that the problems faced by individuals and society as a whole are transient and can be overcome with time and perseverance.

The line, "It's funny how heaven and hell are the same," offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of good and evil. It implies that within human experiences, there exists a blurred line between what is considered heavenly and hellish. It could highlight how individuals can simultaneously experience joy and pain, happiness and sorrow, and how these opposing emotions can coexist within one's personal journey.

The lyrics, "Come walk with me, I don't play those games, I live in the real world, I've lost my faith," hint at a sense of disillusionment. The speaker invites someone to accompany them on their journey but asserts that they do not engage in deceptive behavior. The phrase "I've lost my faith" suggests a loss of belief in something greater or a questioning of religious or spiritual ideologies. It reflects a longing for authenticity and a rejection of superficiality.

Overall, the song conveys a message of introspection and self-reflection, highlighting the human experience of grappling with the consequences of actions, the longing for redemption, and the search for a deeper meaning in life.