Meaning of "Rubicon" by Deftones

"Rubicon" explores themes of vulnerability, connection, and the transformative power of a collective experience. The opening lines, "You cannot face the crowd / All by yourself / Embrace the power we have," reflect a recognition that facing a crowd alone can be daunting and overwhelming. The idea of embracing the power that comes from unity and shared experience suggests that finding strength in community is key to overcoming fear and facing challenges.

The phrases "Brace your eyes slowly / Place your faith into me" and "Your body aches, it should be / Drained out of your life slowly" convey a sense of trust and reliance on someone else, perhaps a friend or a partner, to provide support and guidance. The idea of being drained slowly could symbolize the release of tension, fear, and negative emotions that come from facing the crowd. By placing faith in another person, one can find solace and comfort amidst the chaos.

The repetition of "Take me in / Face the lies / Free yourself and writhe in them" suggests a desire to confront and challenge the falsehoods or illusions that exist within oneself. It encourages the listener to face their own insecurities and doubts, to embrace vulnerability, and to find freedom in expressing their true selves. The word "writhe" conveys a sense of struggle and release, indicating that the act of confronting and embracing one's personal truths can be transformative and cathartic.

The phrase "The record's ours to break" can be interpreted as an encouragement to break free from societal expectations and limitations. It implies that the power to shape one's own destiny and challenge the norm lies within each individual. As the song progresses, the repetition of "The more we build / The crowd goes wild" reinforces the idea that the collective energy and momentum generated by individuals coming together can lead to a powerful and transformative experience.

Overall, "Rubicon" conveys the message that finding strength in unity, embracing vulnerability, and confronting one's own truths can lead to personal growth and empowerment. It encourages the listener to step out of their comfort zone, face their fears, and surrender to the energy of the crowd.