Meaning of "Prey" by Parkway Drive

The lyrics of "Prey" delve into themes of aggression, manipulation, and emotional vulnerability. The repeated refrain of being "prey for the sorrow" suggests a sense of helplessness and the constant vulnerability we all experience as humans. The speaker presents themselves as someone to be feared, with a crooked mind and an axe to grind, indicating a desire for revenge or retribution. This could be interpreted as a reaction to feeling hurt or oppressed, seeking power as a means of protection. The references to chasing vampires and craving sickness further emphasize the dark, destructive impulses within the speaker's mindset.

The lyrics also discuss the search for validation and attention, highlighting the lengths the speaker will go to attain it. The mention of self-medication and the negative effect it has on the speaker's well-being speaks to the destructive cycle of seeking external sources of comfort or escape. This could be seen as a commentary on how society often encourages unhealthy coping mechanisms as a means of dealing with emotional pain.

Furthermore, the lyrics critique the emptiness of modern idols and the culture of envy and narcissism that surrounds them. The reference to dancing upon the altar of envy and hubris suggests that our obsession with others' lives and the pursuit of image can lead to an internal void, breeding depression and dissatisfaction. The speaker implies that this fixation on superficiality and the external only brings temporary relief, ultimately leaving us empty and unfulfilled.

Overall, "Prey" by Parkway Drive explores the darker aspects of human nature and society. It reflects on the ways in which we can become consumed by our own desires for power, attention, and validation, while also questioning the worthiness of those pursuits. It serves as a reminder to be cautious of the destructive tendencies within ourselves and to seek genuine fulfillment rather than superficial satisfaction.