Meaning of "Rival" by Soen

In "Rival," Soen presents a narrative of disillusionment and frustration. The lyrics convey a sense of broken promises and betrayal—a stark contrast to the initial hope and expectations of a promised home. The lines "They promised this would be our home" and "They led us here, to rest our hearts" suggest that the protagonist has been led astray, taken to a place that falls short of their expectations.

The song addresses themes of division and separation. The line "Divided from the ones we love" alludes to a forced separation, further emphasized by the subsequent line "We saw them slay what we adore." These lyrics evoke a feeling of helplessness and despair as the protagonist witnesses the destruction of what they hold dear.

The lyrics also critique the oppressive conditions they find themselves in. The mention of dry soil and foul water mirrors the decay and deterioration of their environment. They speak of being left behind in need, indicating a lack of support and empathy from those they left behind.

Soen portrays a sense of rebellion and resistance through the lines "My hands will burn your walls" and "Commander of the lost." These lyrics indicate a readiness to challenge the oppressive forces and dismantle the barriers that confine them. There is a desire for change and a refusal to accept the current state of affairs. The repeated refrain of "For all the fire" further emphasizes this rebellious spirit, suggesting a determination to fuel the fight for justice and liberation.

The song also addresses the impact of imposed sanctions and the resultant suffering. The lyrics critique the suffocating nature of these sanctions, connecting them to the breeding of weakness and the feeding of the powerful. The protagonist recognizes the manipulation in the thoughts that are being fed to them, acknowledging that these thoughts will ultimately turn against those who enforce them.

The final lines of the song project a sense of resignation and acceptance. The mention of burning fields and a lack of prayers being answered suggest a loss of hope for salvation. The light being blinding serves as a metaphor for the overwhelming disillusionment and disappointment. The protagonist realizes that their dreams are all they have left amid the oppressive circumstances they find themselves in.