Meaning of "Wake Up Screaming" by Subhumans

The lyrics of "Wake Up Screaming" delve into the internal struggle of the narrator as they grapple with past actions and the impact those decisions have had on their life. The song begins with a sense of detachment from their former self, expressing a longing for ignorance and innocence. The repetition of the line "I never watched anyone die before" serves as a metaphor for witnessing the destruction of their previous self, leading to a sense of remorse and lamenting the loss of their former self. The theme of temptation is prevalent throughout the song, highlighting the allure of destructive behaviors and the difficulty of breaking free from harmful patterns. The imagery of slow motion dreams and waking up screaming conveys a sense of psychological distress and inner turmoil, emphasizing the mental toll of past actions. Overall, the lyrics explore the complexities of regret, self-destruction, and the internal battle to break free from damaging behaviors.