Meaning of "Torn To Pieces (On Roses)" by Susanne Sundfør

The lyrics of "Torn To Pieces (On Roses)" by Susanne Sundfør paint a picture of someone who is trapped in a cycle of materialism and ambition, always chasing after external markers of success like money and rank. The repetition of the phrase "You won't sleep" suggests that this person is consumed by their need for validation and achievement, unable to find rest or contentment. The imagery of a "caffeine stain on your midnight soul" highlights the emptiness and exhaustion that comes with constantly pushing oneself to the limit. Despite all their efforts, there is a sense of futility in their pursuits, as indicated by the lines "You know it's not enough" and "No cure for your plight." The reference to being "Torn to pieces on roses" conveys a sense of irony, as roses are traditionally associated with love and beauty, but in this context, they are a source of pain and destruction. Overall, the lyrics suggest a critique of a society that values material success above all else, leaving individuals feeling empty and disillusioned.