Meaning of "Poison Trees" by The Devil Makes Three

The lyrics of "Poison Trees" convey a powerful message about the consequences of willful ignorance and the need for individual introspection. The opening lines, "The roots of the matter run miles deep, This is the era of eternal sleep," set the stage for the song's theme. It suggests that beneath the surface of everyday life, there are deeper issues that need attention. The use of "eternal sleep" signifies the collective apathy and complacency prevalent in society.

The chorus, "This is the harvest of some rotten seeds, This surely isn't any mystery, This is the fruit of the poison trees, You better ask yourself what you believe," highlights the repercussions of neglecting these deep-rooted problems. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and questioning one's beliefs to avoid being complicit in the creation of a toxic environment.

The lyrics also touch on the manipulation and suppression of truth. Lines like, "Fear the hopeless and lock the door, Sweet safety, praise the lord," criticize the tendency to turn away from those less fortunate and seek comfort in ignorance. The imagery of a "burning screen" suggests the power of media to control and influence, making one's stomach knot with anxiety.

The song further emphasizes the consequences of inaction through references to past heroes outlined in chalk. It suggests that heroes who fail to embody their principles, who do not "walk the walk," ultimately lose their impact. Additionally, the reference to 1966 and the lesson learned speaks to a historical moment, highlighting the cyclical nature of societal problems and the failure to learn from the past.

The closing lines, "And I can feel it in my bones, I know you can feel it too, But you just think that you're all alone," convey a sense of shared experience amidst isolation. It challenges the listener to recognize that they are not alone in their concerns and encourages them to find the strength to speak out.

Overall, the song "Poison Trees" serves as a rallying cry against willful ignorance and the consequences of inaction. It urges listeners to question their beliefs, confront deep-rooted problems, and stand united against the storm of societal issues.