Meaning of "Black Is the Soul" by KoRn

The song "Black Is the Soul" delves into the depths of internal turmoil and the struggle to maintain one's identity in the face of darkness. The protagonist contemplates whether to succumb to their troubles or to stand their ground and face the consequences of their actions. The line, "And there's the faceless cries that twist my every dream," alludes to the inner demons and struggles that torment the protagonist, constantly disrupting their peace. The use of the word "faceless" implies a lack of concrete form, suggesting that these struggles may be internal or symbolic in nature.

Throughout the lyrics, a sense of frustration and confusion is evident. The repeated questioning of "Why are we going on this way?" and "Why do we play these games in vain?" conveys the protagonist's desperation for answers. It reflects the human tendency to repeat destructive patterns, even when the outcome is inevitable. The line "Black is the soul that's led astray" further emphasizes the protagonist's feelings of being lost and disconnected from their true self. The darkness that envelops their soul represents the paths they have taken and the choices they have made, which have ultimately led them astray.

The song also touches on the idea that happiness can sometimes be found in the darkest places. The line "Happiness is found in the darkest ways" suggests that the protagonist has learned from their mistakes, as they have searched for fulfillment but only found missteps. This could be interpreted as a reflection on the human tendency to chase happiness through destructive means, often leading to further disappointment and regret.

The chorus highlights the torment of a toxic relationship. The lines "And when you scream, you push me so much further ahead/ And when I leave, I always walk right back again" convey the cyclical nature of this kind of relationship. The protagonist is caught in a never-ending loop of push and pull, unable to fully sever ties with the person who causes them harm.

In the closing lines, the protagonist faces a decision: to walk away or to stand their ground. The repetition of "There's nothing left to say" suggests a feeling of resignation or hopelessness. The song ends on an unresolved note, leaving the ultimate decision up to the listener's interpretation.