Meaning of "Pushing Through" by Mudvayne

The lyrics of "Pushing Through" delve into themes of self-hatred, rebellion, and a rejection of societal norms. The lines "Rip the womb, Feeling so sorry, selfish and sore... Wish I wasn't born!" convey a deep sense of dissatisfaction with one's own existence, highlighting a profound self-loathing. The narrator feels burdened by their own emotions and sees life as a constant struggle. The repetition of the phrase "Step by step, I will push you through this" emphasizes a determination to overcome these emotional and mental challenges. The use of violent imagery, such as "Eye for an eye," and "Tooth for a tooth," suggests a desire for revenge or retribution against those who have caused pain or contributed to the narrator's suffering. It also reflects a belief in personal justice, where the narrator takes it upon themselves to mete out punishment and push others through the same pain they have experienced.

The chorus, which exclaims "Spread the word: The killing is over!" can be interpreted in different ways. It could be seen as a declaration of the narrator's victory over their inner demons, signifying the end of their personal torment. On the other hand, it may also be an expression of disdain for the violence and suffering perpetuated by society, advocating for an end to the metaphorical "killing" of innocence and morals.

The lyrics also touch on the loss of innocence and the impact of past experiences. Phrases like "Blindside, threatened my worth - Sequestered deliverance" suggest that the narrator has been betrayed or hurt by someone they trusted. The line "You stole a part of me... You've taken a part of me" emphasizes the lasting effect of this betrayal and the feeling of having an essential part of oneself stolen or destroyed.

Overall, "Pushing Through" portrays the emotional turmoil and frustration often experienced by individuals who feel trapped or suffocated by societal expectations. It explores the themes of self-loathing, rebellion, and the thirst for personal justice, ultimately seeking to push through the pain and hardships of life.