Meaning of "Workhorse" by Mastodon

The lyrics of "Workhorse" by Mastodon delve into the themes of hard work, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom. The imagery of being slaved into brittle and worked for days evokes a sense of being controlled and exhausted by labor. The comparison to a workhorse, tirelessly working without rest, highlights the monotony and never-ending cycle of labor. Despite the toil and exhaustion, there is a glimmer of hope for freedom and liberation in the world that has been created through hard work. The lyrics suggest that in order to achieve this freedom, sacrifices must be made, consequences must be faced, and losses must be accepted. The burning hell mentioned at the end could represent the trials and challenges faced along the way, but also the fire that fuels the drive to keep going. Overall, the lyrics portray a struggle for autonomy and fulfillment in a world where hard work is essential but comes with its own set of burdens.