Meaning of "Swallow" by KoRn

The lyrics of "Swallow" delve into the narrator's internal struggles and their complicated relationship with pain and identity. The opening lines convey a sense of being trapped and locked within their own thoughts and emotions. The line "No pain? You don't know what I have had" suggests that the narrator has experienced significant pain in their life, possibly implying that others cannot fully understand their inner turmoil.

As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that the narrator is caught in a cycle of self-destruction and self-doubt. They describe a feeling of being controlled and overwhelmed by a mysterious force, represented by the line "It's controlling all of me." This could be seen as a metaphor for addiction, mental illness, or any other external factor that has a grip on the narrator's life.

The repeated line "My sorrow, I swallow" emphasizes the theme of accepting one's own pain or suffering. Here, swallowing can be interpreted as a metaphorical act of taking in or embracing their own sorrow, possibly as a coping mechanism or a way to reclaim their own identity. This act of swallowing may also be tied to a sense of ownership or possession, as the narrator repeatedly declares themselves as someone else's.

The lyrics also touch on the narrator's confusion and uncertainty about their own role in their suffering. They question whether they are the cause of their pain, stating "Was it me? I swallow. Forget me! I don't know." This suggests a lack of self-awareness or a desire to distance themselves from their own actions or choices.

The closing section of the song, where the narrator repeats the phrase "Punk ass sissy I'm a freak," can be seen as a defiant declaration of their own uniqueness and individuality. They embrace their identity as a "freak" and challenge others to accept them as they are.

Overall, "Swallow" explores themes of pain, inner turmoil, identity, and self-acceptance. It portrays a complex and conflicted internal landscape, where the narrator grapples with their own suffering and seeks a sense of ownership or belonging.