The lyrics describe the narrator's experience in Georgia, where they encounter a group of women who are referred to as "summer cannibals." These women entice the narrator to join them in their consuming behavior, but eventually, the narrator decides to sacrifice themselves instead.

Meaning of "Summer Cannibals" by Patti Smith

"Summer Cannibals" by Patti Smith explores themes of consumption, sacrifice, and rebellion. The summer cannibals represent a metaphor for societal norms and pressures that can lead individuals to blindly conform and consume without questioning. The narrator's refusal to partake in their behaviors symbolizes a form of rebellion against this toxic environment. By offering themselves up for consumption in the end, the narrator is making a sacrificial statement, rejecting the idea of being consumed and instead taking control of their own destiny. The lyrics suggest a critique of societal expectations and the struggle to maintain individuality and autonomy in the face of overwhelming conformity.