Meaning of "Father's Day" by Ice Nine Kills

The lyrics of "Father's Day" delve into the complex emotions of betrayal, hurt, and resilience that come from a broken father-son relationship. The son grapples with the realization that his father's actions have left a lasting impact, shaping him in ways he never wanted. Despite the desire to rise above the pain and build a new path, the son struggles with the darkness that resides within him, a legacy of his father's failures. The repeated refrain of "never again never defend what you are" signifies the son's determination to break the cycle and not repeat the mistakes of his father. The imagery of building a city on ashes and rising above the flames conveys a sense of rebuilding and renewal after destruction, symbolizing the son's resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the son confronts his father, recognizing him as the monster that lives inside him, and decides to take control of his own narrative, finding a way to heal and move forward despite the pain.