Meaning of "Hearing Voices" by Suicidal Tendencies

The lyrics of "Hearing Voices" by Suicidal Tendencies explore the experience of auditory hallucinations, which can be symptomatic of mental health issues such as schizophrenia. The narrator describes coming home late and feeling a sense of unease, which indicates their compromised mental state. The voices they hear when they are alone represent the internal struggle and conflict within their mind. The repeated line "Hearing voices" emphasizes the relentless nature of the hallucinations and the inability to escape them. The search and confusion in trying to locate the source of the voices symbolize the confusion and frustration that people with auditory hallucinations often experience. The question of whether the voices are demons or angels reflects the narrator's attempt to understand the nature of their mental state. It highlights the internal battle between negative and positive thoughts, suggesting that the voices could be viewed as both disturbing and enlightening. As the song progresses, the narrator begins to accept the reality of the voices, realizing they are part of a larger plan or purpose. This suggests that the narrator is coming to terms with their mental health condition and starting to see the importance of their own personal journey and growth. The ultimate question posed by the lyrics is which voice the narrator will choose to listen to. This represents the conscious decision to prioritize positive, rational thoughts over the intrusive and disturbing voices, ultimately seeking control and stability. The song serves as an exploration of the challenges faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues, as well as the importance of self-understanding, acceptance, and resilience.