Meaning of "We Are" by Karnivool

The lyrics of "We Are" by Karnivool reveal a deep sense of disillusionment and loss, both personal and collective. The opening lines, "I know there's something wrong / Stop making it up / We're too proud to see we've lost more than our trust," suggest a recognition of a problem that has been ignored or denied for too long. It speaks of the refusal to acknowledge the damage caused and the consequences of their actions. The line "This disease has left a foul taste in our cup" could refer to a metaphorical disease that has infected their relationships, or perhaps a metaphor for the bitter consequences of their choices.

The repetition of "It just keeps on flowing / And we drift unknowing / This babble from our mouth" indicates the emptiness and meaninglessness of their communication. There is a sense of drifting, of being carried along by the current without purpose or control. The use of the word "babble" suggests that their words lack substance, that they are speaking without truly engaging or understanding the consequences of their actions.

The chorus, with the lines "Who we are, I fear most of the time / Carry on shuffling / In order and in line / Who we are, I feel most of the time / Carry on whipping boy / Stare into the light" expresses a fear of identity, of being stuck in a repetitive and conforming existence. The speaker questions who they are and their role in society. The mention of being a "whipping boy" suggests a feeling of being scapegoated or used to absorb the consequences of others' actions. The directive to "stare into the light" could symbolize a desire for enlightenment, for clarity and understanding amidst the confusion.

The verses continue to explore the desire for change and transformation. The lines "I want us to break the case we're in / We've worn it for too long, this catatonic skin" express a longing to escape the current state, which they describe as a "catatonic skin," suggesting a state of numbness and inaction. There is a recognition that this state is unsustainable and detrimental to future generations, as suggested by the line "A world of confusion awaits our sons and kin."

The repeated phrases "Well it stings, it hurts, is this how it's meant to be?" and "A small price to pay to be in control / And rebirth what our future's meant to be" depict the struggle and pain involved in the process of change. The narrator questions whether the pain is a necessary aspect of the transformation and whether it is worth it to regain control of their lives and shape a better future.

The song ends with the repetition of the lines "These words of wisdom / Come with lack of vision / This is the worst day I've ever / Had to stand and witness," which emphasizes the disappointment and frustration with the lack of true understanding and insight. There is a suggestion that the challenges are becoming overwhelming and that the current situation has reached its breaking point.