Meaning of "Flat Of The Blade" by Massive Attack

In "Flat Of The Blade," Massive Attack explores themes of alienation, hidden potential, and the burdens of responsibility. The lyrics suggest that the narrator struggles to fit in, feeling uncomfortable and out of place in social settings. They possess skills and experiences that they are unable to reveal, hinting at a secret life or a past haunted by disturbing memories. It is this unseen baggage, the "things I've seen," that follows them relentlessly, even into death ("chase me to the grave").

The song also touches on the theme of oppressive circumstances. The imagery of being led with hands tied and fed to sand flies represents being restrained and exposed to hardship. The narrator stumbles through the vast desert ("stumble the dunes"), seemingly complaining to the moon as a symbol of their futile quest for solace or understanding.

The phrase "backs to the wheel, there's granite to shove" suggests a relentless struggle, the constant burden of working tirelessly to overcome obstacles. The expression "take it, they give it, so rivet for rivet" captures a cyclical nature of effort and reward, emphasizing that every bit of progress is hard-earned. The narrator's motivation for this arduous labor is to build a "bulletproof roof" for their family, symbolizing creating a safe and secure future for their loved ones amidst a harsh and unpredictable world.

The chorus raises introspective questions concerning the consequences of one's choices. The weight of the steel and the flat of the blade symbolize the repercussions of decisions, with the "weight of the steel" representing the burden of responsibility and the "flat of the blade" suggesting vulnerability and consequences. Kneeling at the feet of these choices implies surrendering to the outcomes and acknowledging the impact they have had on one's life.

Overall, "Flat Of The Blade" delves into the complexities of personal experiences, the struggles faced in social settings, the weight of responsibility, and the choices that shape our lives.