Meaning of "Satan Pulls The Strings" by The Avett Brothers

The lyrics of "Satan Pulls The Strings" by The Avett Brothers delve into the internal conflict between good and evil that many individuals face. The song uses metaphors to describe this struggle. The mention of the baby in the cradle and the devil in the speaker's head suggests the corrupting influence that can infiltrate even the most innocent aspects of life. The puppet box metaphor emphasizes the lack of control one might feel over their actions, as if they are being manipulated by external forces like Satan. This speaks to the idea that we often feel powerless and easily influenced, and that it takes immense effort and self-awareness to resist these negative influences. The reference to God being in the song and the devil being in the speaker's feet demonstrates the constant battle between the desire to do good and the temptation to give in to sinful impulses. This conflict is often reflected in human nature, where our actions can be driven by both noble intentions and selfish desires. The mention of Mama cooking something up and Satan ringing in suggests that the devil's influence can even infiltrate our family life and daily routines. The speaker feels compelled to answer the call of Satan, indicating the ongoing struggle to resist the allure of evil. Overall, this song portrays the complexities of human nature and the constant battle between good and evil that exists within ourselves.