Meaning of "Feast Your Eyes" by Mastodon

"Feast Your Eyes" delves into the internal struggle of the narrator, who feels torn apart by the call for reason. The opening lines suggest that the search for reason and logic only leads to confusion and disarray, turning the narrator inside out. They express a sense of being lost and directionless, trapped in a state of stagnation and lacking any sense of flow or progression in life.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of societal rejection, with the narrator referring to those labeled as "rejects" as all they have. This highlights the isolation and alienation experienced by both the narrator and these outcasts. The line "The mills of life, they will grind you down" implies that the struggle of life itself wears people down, further reinforcing the bleakness and weariness that the narrator feels.

The recurring phrase "See the red" suggests a symbolic representation of intense emotions, possibly anger or a heightened state of awareness. It paints a vivid image of a vivid red color, which can be interpreted both literally or metaphorically. The repetition of this phrase emphasizes the intensity and all-consuming nature of these emotions, perhaps hinting at the destructive power they can wield.

The lyrics continue by exploring the concept of a vision, which the narrator chews with their teeth. This can be interpreted as a metaphorical way of trying to understand or process this vision, suggesting a need to intellectually digest and comprehend the profound experiences or truths they encounter. The mention of believing the dying and minds that read hints at the idea that profound knowledge or insight can come from those who have experienced hardship or are deeply perceptive.

The song takes a darker turn with the line "This beast is vicious, turns your pale face green," suggesting a looming threat or a force that can cause great distress. The constant search for mystery can be seen as a coping mechanism, a distraction from the harsh realities of life. The secret that is confided into the trees represents the weight of hidden truths and the damaging effects they can have. It highlights the vulnerability and trust that can be placed in nature, seeking solace and an outlet for revealing secrets.

The closing lines of the song express a sense of resolution and unity. Falling into pieces could signify surrendering to the chaos and accepting that they are done with trying to make sense of it all. The phrase "You stick with me and prevail as one" suggests finding strength and resilience through connection and loyalty, emphasizing the importance of companionship and unity in the face of adversity.