Meaning of "Lech" by Slipknot

The lyrics of "Lech" by Slipknot delve into dark themes of guilt, punishment, and the consequences of reckless behavior. The line "I know why Judas wept" immediately conveys an intense sense of remorse and anguish. This phrase references the biblical figure of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus Christ, leading to his crucifixion. By associating themselves with Judas, the speaker may be suggesting that they too are burdened by guilt and struggling with the consequences of their actions.

The imagery of fire and blood in the first stanza highlights the speaker's violent nature and the lives they have taken. The line "Survivors' guilt undetermined" suggests that the speaker is uncertain about whether they deserve to feel guilty for their actions or not. This ambiguity further amplifies their internal turmoil. Additionally, the reference to banishment and conquest implies a sense of isolation, as if the speaker has separated themselves from society due to their violent tendencies.

The second stanza introduces the theme of selfishness and the disregard for others. The lines "I'll eat the skins of my brothers" and "The alabaster bones will make a perfect wall" evoke a disturbing image of cannibalism and may symbolize the speaker's willingness to consume others for their own benefit and protection. This speaks to their willingness to go to extreme lengths to satisfy their desires and survive.

As the lyrics progress, the speaker expresses a sense of frustration and exhaustion. The lines "Can you feel the cold? / Fortune never favors the old" imply a recognition of life's harsh realities, implying that success and good fortune are limited and fleeting. The repetition of "NINE - FOR - SURE" brings a sense of determination and conviction, suggesting that the speaker is committed to their destructive path despite the consequences.

The references to monsters, voices in the head, and hiding beneath the bed convey a sense of psychological torment and paranoia. It seems that the speaker is haunted by their own inner demons and lives in a constant state of fear and anxiety. The warning that they "live like fucking heathens" implies that their behavior is self-destructive and will ultimately lead to their downfall.

The final section of the lyrics shows a shift in attitude. The speaker admits to having a "rotting sink" inside them, symbolizing a part of themselves that is decaying and causing them pain. However, they resist external denigration and take ownership of their choices and regrets. The rejection of being a "fucking superstar" suggests a rejection of societal expectations and a desire to live life on their own terms. The closing repetition of "No one is bulletproof" underscores the theme of vulnerability and the inevitability of facing the consequences of one's actions.