Meaning of "Blood Hands" by Royal Blood

"Blood Hands" delves into the emotions of isolation and the consequences of one's actions. The opening lines, "Took a lonely feeling just to let the meaning sink, Like the sun goes down, Never close to heaven, felt my feet were burning, From the same red hot ground," convey a sense of despair and longing for connection. The protagonist feels disconnected from others and struggles with the weight of their past actions.

The repetition of the phrase "There's blood on my hands" serves as a metaphor for guilt and the symbol of the consequences of their actions. It represents the burden the protagonist carries, as if they are stained by their past mistakes. The line "It's getting hard to listen when the clock is ticking" suggests a growing sense of frustration and impatience, possibly indicating a desire for understanding from others.

The chorus, "But I'll curse the ground where you kneel, Till I grow my hair to my heels, Spike your water, your wine, While you waste my precious time," expresses a longing for revenge or justice against someone who has betrayed or hurt the protagonist. It shows their determination to make those who have wronged them feel the same pain.

The verse "Every time I drink and try to stop my thinking, 'Bout the things I've said and done, Stop the world from turning faster, Then I'm learning not to just hide and run" explores the protagonist's attempt to escape their guilt and confront their past actions. They struggle with the consequences of their choices and seek redemption or a way to stop the world from spinning out of control.

The theme of lost love is also present in the lines "Love came and went faster than a penny spent, In a slot machine, Nowhere near the table, just somewhere in between you and me, Sworn to secrecy." This imagery signifies a brief and unfulfilling relationship that left the protagonist feeling empty and disappointed. The idea of being "somewhere in between" suggests a lack of genuine connection or commitment.

Overall, "Blood Hands" explores a range of emotions, from loneliness and betrayal to frustration and the desire for justice. It portrays the internal struggle of reconciling past mistakes and seeking understanding from others.