Meaning of "But Life Goes On" by Entombed

The lyrics of "But Life Goes On" delve into the complex themes of death, decay, and the afterlife. The opening lines introduce a vivid and repugnant image of death, highlighting the unpleasant reality of a decaying corpse. The phrase "Is that the way you want to die?" raises a rhetorical question, challenging the listener to contemplate their own mortality and the choices they make in life.

The narrator expresses a reluctance to live in a "decaying shell," rejecting the idea of a physical existence that withers and decomposes. This rejection of decay and the search for something greater is further emphasized by their questioning of traditional notions of heaven and hell. They challenge the beliefs that dictate their fate and question the authority of those who claim to know what lies beyond death.

The concept of coming back from the dead is introduced, implying a possible cycle of rebirth or transcending physical death altogether. The phrase "Dying my death in relentless aggrieve" suggests a profound and ongoing struggle with mortality. The narrator refuses to accept being confined to a wooden box, indicating a desire for liberation and a resistance against the limitations imposed on them by death.

The lyrics also touch on the existential idea that life itself can be one's worst enemy. The refrain "Dead - Deceased, but life goes on" conveys a sense of paradox, implying that death does not offer an escape from the struggles and hardships of life. Instead, it suggests that life is a continuous battle, where the narrator claims to be the one who will ultimately triumph. The imagery of a charred body decaying but the soul floating is a powerful symbol of transcendence, suggesting that there is something more to existence beyond the physical realm.

Overall, "But Life Goes On" explores deep questions surrounding mortality, rejecting conventional beliefs about the afterlife, and instead seeking a personal understanding and transcendence.