The lyrics of "Black Tongue" depict themes of self-destructive behavior, loss, and betrayal. The speaker describes damaging themselves by burning out their eyes, cutting off their tongue, and sealing them with silver. They express feelings of being betrayed and having their sight taken away, leading to an overall sense of loss and hopelessness.

Meaning of "Black Tongue" by Mastodon

The lyrics of "Black Tongue" by Mastodon delve into themes of self-sabotage, betrayal, and the consequences of destructive behaviors. The image of burning out eyes and cutting off the tongue suggests an extreme form of self-harm, possibly symbolizing a desire to be purposefully blinded and silenced. The references to being betrayed and losing sight can be interpreted as a metaphor for relationships that have gone awry, where trust has been broken and one's perspective on the world has been altered. The imagery of burying stars underground and stealing the night conveys a sense of darkness and loss of hope, emphasizing the bleakness of the speaker's situation. The repeated lines about running out of lies and time suggest a moment of reckoning, where actions have caught up with consequences. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of intense emotional turmoil and the aftermath of destructive choices.