Meaning of "Carry Stress In The Jaw" by Mr. Bungle

The lyrics of "Carry Stress In The Jaw" explore themes of anxiety, obsession, and secrecy. The opening lines depict the act of grinding teeth, symbolizing the physical manifestation of stress and tension. It suggests a sense of unease and discomfort that the narrator experiences in their daily life. The mention of pulling the day from the nocturne suggests a disruption of sleep, indicating the presence of nightmares and the inability to find solace during the night.

Through the reference to "Berenice," the lyrics delve into a story by Edgar Allan Poe, where a man becomes obsessed with his cousin's teeth. This allusion adds a layer of psychological complexity to the song, portraying an unhealthy fixation on an object that represents the thoughts and identity of a person. The lyrics touch upon the idea that thoughts can be overwhelming and haunting, as the teeth maintain a "terrible ascendancy." This further reinforces the mental turmoil and distress experienced by the narrator.

The line "Lock into bitten dreams perfectionist, break like a child's mouth" suggests an internal struggle between perfectionism and vulnerability. The narrator's dreams are described as being bitten, indicating a sense of pressure and control. However, the mention of breaking like a child's mouth implies a fragility and innocence that is vulnerable to the pressures of the outside world.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of secrecy and the fear of exposing one's true self. The line "Quiet, don't tell anybody, don't let anyone know, there's a secret" illustrates the desire to hide something, possibly a part of their identity or a personal truth. This secret creates a sense of isolation and the fear of being rejected or judged.

The concluding line, "And kick me out of your bed," further emphasizes the feelings of rejection and alienation. It implies a sense of distance or disconnection from another person, possibly a lover or someone close. This rejection can be seen as a consequence of the narrator's anxieties and internal struggles, pushing them away from intimacy and connection.

Overall, "Carry Stress In The Jaw" delves into the psychological complexities of anxiety, obsession, and secrecy. It explores the pain and turmoil of the narrator's internal struggles, portraying a sense of isolation and vulnerability.