Meaning of "Blood" by Pearl Jam

The lyrics of Pearl Jam's "Blood" delve into themes of personal violation, frustration, and the feeling of being drained. The opening lines, "Spin me round, Roll me over, Fucking circus, Stab it down," evoke a sense of being tossed around and humiliated within a chaotic and dehumanizing environment. The use of aggressive language and imagery highlights the intensity of the emotions being expressed.

The line "One way needle, Pulled so slowly" suggests a slow and painful process of being exploited or manipulated. The metaphorical drainage of blood and its subsequent soaking of pages and filling of sponges symbolizes the loss of personal vitality, as well as the absorption of one's experiences and emotions by others. This could reflect a feeling of being taken advantage of and used by others, resulting in emotional exhaustion.

The repetition of the phrase "It's my blood" throughout the song emphasizes ownership of personal experiences and emotions. It conveys a defiant stance, asserting that despite being drained and violated, the narrator still maintains control over their own emotions and identity. This could be seen as a form of self-empowerment and an assertion of autonomy in the face of exploitation.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of transformation and the desire to turn the tables on those who have caused harm. The lines "Paint Ed big, Turn Ed into one of his enemies" suggest a desire to expose and confront the person responsible, possibly seeking revenge or justice. This reflects a need to regain power and control in the face of mistreatment.

The repeated question "Why, why, why, why, why, why?" highlights the confusion and frustration that arises from the narrator's experiences. It embodies a search for answers and understanding, challenging the motives behind the actions of those who have violated and drained the narrator. The comparison of the perpetrators to "rats" suggests a dehumanization of their actions, emphasizing their malicious and