Meaning of "Bastards" by Defeater

The lyrics of "Bastards" delve into the complex emotions and struggles of the protagonist, who is haunted by their past actions and their impact on their family. The opening lines, "I hope this finds you well, A father lost and mother dear, The family that's kept me here," indicate a sense of distance and separation from the family. It suggests a strained relationship, possibly due to a history of violence or mistreatment. The protagonist acknowledges their mistakes and describes them as a "hard lesson learned." They have learned how to lose everything, how to push loved ones away, and how to deceive when claiming they will never harm them again.

The chorus reveals the religious undertones within the song. The protagonist speaks of the family's pleas and prayers to a higher power, seeking protection from their destructive tendencies. The phrase "save you from me" conveys a deep sense of remorse and self-awareness. They believe that their actions are a result of their own internal turmoil and that they are the embodiment of a "bastard."

The second verse continues to explore the inner conflict of the protagonist. They refer to their broken spirit, calloused hands, and the ache they carry. These physical manifestations symbolize the weight of their guilt and the burden of their actions. The reference to "my grief and skeletons" suggests that they carry the weight of their past mistakes and regrets. They take ownership of the burdens they carry, counting them as their own. The repetition of the line "And still all you see is that bastard in me" highlights the protagonist's ongoing struggle with their own perception of themselves. Despite their efforts to change and distance themselves from their past, they still view themselves as irredeemable.

Overall, "Bastards" portrays the internal torment of a protagonist grappling with their past actions and the impact they have had on their loved ones. It delves into themes of guilt, remorse, and the struggle to break free from one's own destructive tendencies. The lyrics convey a deep sense of self-loathing and an ongoing battle to find redemption and forgiveness.