Meaning of "Hands Up" by Parker Millsap

"Hands Up" delves into the complex emotions of a character who is portrayed as a robber but is revealed to be a victim of circumstances beyond his control. The lyrics explore the idea of how war can push individuals to their limits and leave them struggling to reintegrate into society. By juxtaposing the character's military experiences with his current desperate situation, the song highlights the lasting impact of trauma and the challenges faced by those who have served in combat. The narrative paints a poignant picture of a man who is haunted by his past and driven to extreme measures in order to survive in the present. The repeated refrain of "put your hands up" acts as both a command in the context of the robbery and a symbol of surrender to the struggles and injustices faced by the protagonist.