Meaning of "Only the Young Die Good" by Saintseneca

The song "Only the Young Die Good" by Saintseneca explores themes of disillusionment, longing, and the desire for transformation. The opening lines depict the protagonist as feeling detached, describing their face as a "waste" and emphasizing that it is not their own to keep. They have likely been hurt or mistreated, indicated by being "slapped across the head." With limited time, they set out to forget the pain, suggesting a coping mechanism of avoidance.

The following lines use vivid imagery to convey the passing of time and the dissonance between hope and disappointment. The idea of "new and glorious morn" implies the potential for a fresh start, but the reality is that hours "sour" and disappoint despite efforts to embellish them. This conveys a sense of disillusionment and the inability to find fulfillment or satisfaction in life.

The refrain "But all in good time, you break before the light" suggests a loss of resilience or motivation. The character becomes soaked in wine, which metaphorically dries their will to fight. This could represent a reliance on substances or escapism to numb the pain or avoid facing reality. The repetition of the phrase "But everyday is never enough" emphasizes a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and a feeling that life is lacking meaning or purpose.

The lyrics then mention the contents of the protagonist's guts, perhaps alluding to a sense of internal turmoil or unease. The imagery of being "drunk on this spirit tonight" suggests a desire for something more profound or transcendent, seeking a sense of meaning or connection.

The following lines introduce a longing for corruption and transformation. The protagonist expresses a willingness for corruption to come swiftly like a thief in the night, implying a desire for a radical, transformative experience. The phrase "pluck my right eye right out" is a metaphorical expression of sacrifice, illustrating a willingness to part with something dear in order to achieve the desired transformation.

The second verse continues to explore the protagonist's state of mind, using imagery to depict an ominous presence hanging over them. The mention of "sprites falling on knives" suggests a sense of danger or darkness surrounding the protagonist. The idea of sight as a sense is introduced, connecting it to the protagonist's sense of touch and how they interact with the world. This highlights the importance of perception and how touch shapes one's understanding and experience of the world.

The conclusion of the lyrics returns to the desire for corruption, this time focusing on the young ones dying good. This phrase implies a belief that a good death is a release from the difficulties and disappointments of life. The protagonist prays for this corruption to slip in and redeem the rest, suggesting a longing for a transformative experience that can bring meaning or resolution to their struggles.