Meaning of "Bleed" by Meshuggah

The lyrics delve into the experience of agony, both physical and psychological. The imagery of fire, pain, and blood symbolizes the intense inner turmoil that the protagonist is going through. The constant references to "bleeding" and "ruin" depict a sense of self-destruction and the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of suffering. The mention of a "micro nemesis" suggests a form of internal conflict or self-sabotage that perpetuates the protagonist's pain. The line "scornful gods haggle for my soul" alludes to a sense of divine or higher power watching and participating in their suffering, adding to the feeling of helplessness. The lyrics also touch upon the existential question of mortality, with the mention of being "deletion" and the presence of a "reaper." Overall, the song seems to depict a struggle with one's inner demons and the overwhelming weight of pain and suffering.