Meaning of "Backfire" by Mutemath
"Backfire" by Mutemath delves into the theme of control and the unpredictability of life. The lyrics suggest a sense of frustration and resignation towards the human tendency to meticulously plan every detail while ultimately facing failure and disappointment when things don't go as expected. The repeated phrase "Sure-fired plans that backfired again" emphasizes the cyclical nature of setbacks despite putting in maximum effort to foresee all potential outcomes. The imagery of knives not carrying varying laws and self-made coffins symbolizes the consequences of our actions and decisions, highlighting the inevitability of facing the outcomes of our choices, whether positive or negative. The song's chorus, "It's gonna backfire again," acts as a repetitive warning of the futility in trying to control every aspect of life and the acceptance of the unpredictability and chaotic nature of existence.