Meaning of "They Eat Their Young" by Overkill

"They Eat Their Young" delves into themes of betrayal, isolation, and the harsh realities of a world where selfishness reigns supreme. The lyrics convey a deep sense of responsibility to fight against what is wrong, even when it seems like an uphill battle. The idea of being surrounded by those who would devour their own kind serves as a metaphor for the cutthroat nature of society, where individuals are willing to sacrifice others for personal gain. The repetition of "I feel responsibility to hate" emphasizes a moral obligation to stand against injustice, while the imagery of turning from dirt to mud to slime symbolizes a descent into a darker, more corrupt state of being. In the face of adversity and abandonment, the narrator remains steadfast, waiting for those who might come back, highlighting the enduring hope for redemption and change. Overall, the lyrics of "They Eat Their Young" paint a bleak but powerful picture of the struggle to resist the forces of oppression and cruelty.