Meaning of "Backwater" by Meat Puppets

The lyrics of "Backwater" convey a sense of resignation and acceptance towards the struggles and pain that life brings. The opening verse speaks of waking up in the morning to face the day, feeling the blood flowing through one's body. This imagery suggests a connection to the vitality and rawness of life, but also implies the vulnerability that comes with it. The mention of a knife to open up the sky's veins introduces a sense of violence or chaos, disrupting the natural order of things.

The repeated phrase "Some things will never change" emphasizes the idea that despite any efforts to improve or escape, there are certain aspects of life that remain constant and uncontrollable. The feeling of being just half conscious from pain and looking backwards suggests a longing for a simpler or more peaceful time, but also highlights the difficulty of fully escaping the hardships and challenges that have been faced.

The mention of sheltering under paper and the rockets coming sideways creates a juxtaposition between fragility and unexpected threats. It conveys the idea that even the seemingly safe spaces or attitudes can be easily disrupted or shaken. This may symbolize the unpredictable nature of life's challenges and the need to adapt or confront them head-on.

The closing verse repeats the earlier imagery of waking up to the daybreak and feeling the blood flowing, but adds the element of the blood flowing through the ceiling. This suggests a sense of being overwhelmed or trapped by the struggle, as if the challenges are closing in from all directions. The mention of the sky's veins being opened up with a knife reinforces the idea of disruption and chaos.

Overall, "Backwater" reflects a somber and resigned perspective on the cyclical nature of life's difficulties. It acknowledges that certain things may seem to change or improve, but deep down, there is always an unchanging struggle that remains. The lyrics capture a sense of trying to find stability and peace amidst the constant challenges and disruptions that come with existence.