The narrator of the song has a criminal record and is unable to leave the state. They express a strong animosity towards someone who is last on their "bad list." The narrator recalls memories of a person who was dragged away while their mother watched. The song ends with the repeated question of "where do I hide?" and the narrator urging someone to hurry inside.

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Meaning of "Where Do I Hide" by Nickelback


The lyrics of "Where Do I Hide" by Nickelback convey a sense of isolation, regret, and an underlying feeling of being trapped. The narrator's criminal record restricts their freedom, symbolizing their inability to escape the consequences of their actions. They hold a deep hatred towards someone who is positioned at the lowest point on their list, suggesting a personal vendetta or ongoing feud. The line "long past due" indicates that the narrator has been seeking justice or revenge for an extended period of time.

The mention of walking down the aisle and staring at the person in question adds a layer of intensity and confrontation to the situation. It suggests that the narrator is actively confronting their adversary without fear or hesitation. The repetition of the line "I still hear him screaming 'where do I hide?'" highlights the torment and paranoia they experience. This phrase could represent the voice or conscience of the person the narrator has harmed, constantly haunting them. The urgency to "hurry inside" implies a desperate need for safety or escape, either from the consequences of their actions or from the relentless psychological torment.

The mention of memories, specifically "yours and not mine," indicates a disconnect between the narrator's perspective and the memories they are recalling. It implies that the memories belong to someone else, possibly the person they have harmed or their loved ones. This raises questions about responsibility, guilt, and empathy. The narrator's repetition of "hurry inside" could be a plea for someone to protect them or a reflection of their own internal struggle to find solace and refuge.

Overall, "Where Do I Hide" explores themes of guilt, isolation, the desire for escape, and the consequences of one's actions. It portrays a character burdened by their past and haunted by the repercussions of their choices. The lyrics leave the listener questioning the narrator's mindset, motivations, and the extent of their remorse.