Meaning of "Kill or Be Killed" by New Years Day

"Kill or Be Killed" explores themes of vengeance, survival, and the darker aspects of human nature. The lyrics depict a protagonist who feels that their imagination is twisted, suggesting that they have experienced traumatic events or have been exposed to disturbing situations. This has led them to develop a strong instinct for self-preservation and a desire for revenge. The line "My vengeance is a curse" indicates that seeking retribution has become an all-consuming obsession for the narrator.

The repeated line "I want to watch you bleed, you're the crime but I'm the scene" reflects the narrator's thirst for violence and the idea that they want to be the one in control of the situation. They view themselves as the orchestrators of justice and feel that they have the authority to decide who deserves punishment. This sense of power allows them to justify their actions, even if it means resorting to extreme measures.

The phrase "back against the wall" is repeated throughout the song, symbolizing a feeling of being trapped or cornered. This could represent the narrator's belief that they have no choice but to engage in violent acts in order to protect themselves and survive. The repeated statement "kill or be killed" reinforces this idea, suggesting that in their world, there is no room for mercy or forgiveness.

The line "Don't be ashamed of all the monsters in your head, all of us are sick" implies that the narrator believes everyone has a dark side and that their own inner demons are simply a reflection of the inherent darkness within humanity. This acknowledgment of the universal capacity for darkness might serve as a way for the narrator to justify their own violent tendencies.

Overall, "Kill or Be Killed" delves into the depths of vengeance, survival, and the internal struggle between light and darkness within the human psyche. It portrays a narrator who is consumed by the need for retribution and is willing to embrace their own monstrous nature in order to obtain it.