The lyrics of "Landmines" by Rishloo depict a sense of isolation and desperation. The narrator expresses the need for water and reflects on the destruction they have caused, except for their daughter. The song explores themes of self-reflection, the search for meaning, and the consequences of one's actions.

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Meaning of "Landmines" by Rishloo


"Landmines" delves into the complex emotions of the narrator, showcasing a deeper meaning beyond the surface-level lyrical content. The opening line, "This may be where the sidewalk ends," suggests a sense of reaching a breaking point or a place of no return. The reference to shimmering surfaces and the need for water represents the desire for clarity and renewal, perhaps to cleanse the guilt or burden of the narrator's actions.

The line, "I've killed everyone here except for my daughter," hints at a troubled past or a violent history. It implies a sense of regret and remorse, highlighting the weight of the narrator's actions. The daughter becomes a symbol of hope and redemption, the one remaining connection to a better future.

The mention of "sixteen points" with five being heads and ten being snakes represents a struggle or conflict within the narrator's mind. The snakes chasing their tails may represent the cyclical nature of destructive behaviors and the continuous descent into despair. The repeated question, "What does it say?" reflects the narrator's search for meaning and the longing to understand their purpose or worthiness.

The following lines express a sense of resignation and a willingness to let go of toxic patterns and relationships. The concept of being "slave to the limit" suggests being restrained by self-imposed boundaries or societal expectations. The farewell to friends and the desire to bond with what was lost implies a need for personal growth and self-discovery.

The lines "Safe to crawl across this tin-can-tightrope walk?" and "I want to crawl across this footprint, dialogue fog" convey the struggle to navigate uncertain paths and decipher meaningful communication. It reflects the desire for authenticity and genuine connections amidst a world filled with superficiality and confusion.

The line "Do you recall when you pushed a little further?" suggests a longing for growth and personal progress, questioning whether the listener has also experienced pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.

The chorus, "We're just here to burn your cities down, caught a lot of love, heard a lot of empty voices, got a lot to learn, overcome my motives" indicates a rebellion against societal norms and a rejection of shallow relationships. It also highlights the necessity of personal growth and the need to confront one's motives. The mention of the "naked, automated cabaret" implies a disillusionment with the artificiality and shallowness of modern society.

The song concludes with a declaration of self-worth and the rejection of meaningless existence. The narrator expresses exhaustion with superficial pleasures and the desire for something more profound and fulfilling. The final lines "Left up to you, I'd drown in the desert, left up to you, I'd use up forever, choking down your plastic water" reveal a rejection of empty promises and a longing for authenticity.