Meaning of "Branded" by NateWantsToBattle

The lyrics of "Branded" by NateWantsToBattle depict a sense of internal struggle and self-destructive behavior driven by societal pressures. The narrator hears voices in their head and is torn apart by inner conflicts, feeling trapped and unable to find a way out. They feel like they're losing their mind, suggesting a state of desperation and confusion. The burning in their heart represents the intensity of their emotional turmoil.

The lyrics touch on the theme of materialism and the empty pursuit of wealth. The narrator mentions "fat stacks and hybrid cars" as symbols of material possessions, but laments that these things don't bring fulfillment or happiness. They acknowledge that the pursuit of money has left them branded with scars in the shape of dollar signs, metaphorically representing the emotional and psychological toll of their obsession with wealth.

The narrator also expresses a sense of disconnection from their true self. They describe being placed under a spell and seeing somebody else when they look in the mirror. This could be interpreted as a loss of identity or a feeling of being out of touch with their authentic self. This loss of self is further emphasized by the line "The California sun incinerated who I am," suggesting that external influences and societal expectations have played a role in erasing their true identity.

Overall, "Branded" explores the themes of internal struggle, materialism, and the loss of identity. It highlights the consequences of societal pressures and the detrimental effects of pursuing wealth at the expense of personal well-being. The song presents a bleak and introspective perspective on the toll that these pressures can take on an individual, ultimately leading to a state that can only be described as a special kind of hell.