Meaning of "Pantomime" by Engine Down

The lyrics of "Pantomime" by Engine Down convey a sense of being stuck in a cycle of self-doubt and resignation. The repetition of phrases like "Same as it ever was" and "The air to breathe always there" suggests a feeling of monotony and inevitability in the speaker's life. They find themselves unable to break free from negative patterns of thought and behavior, as expressed through lines such as "Forced to grin" and "Locked me in." The mention of receiving an award for "I can't stand the start that I made" hints at a sense of regret and self-criticism, which weighs heavily on the speaker's mind. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling with their own internal battles and feeling powerless to change their circumstances.