Meaning of "43% Burnt" by The Dillinger Escape Plan

The lyrics of "43% Burnt" evoke a sense of intense aggression and frustration. The repetition of phrases like "I pushed you too far" and "You pushed me too far" suggests a power struggle or destructive relationship dynamic. The speaker takes pleasure in causing pain and asserts control over the other person, depicted metaphorically as knocking them off their horse. The reference to self-absorption and spitting on oneself implies a destructive self-image, perhaps fueled by feelings of inadequacy. The line "Take your medicine like a champ" could be interpreted as a call to endure suffering with strength, while the reference to a sting lasting a million years conveys the lingering pain of past experiences. The mention of utopia, albeit in a negative light, suggests a desire for an idealized state, even if it is unattainable. Overall, the lyrics of "43% Burnt" convey a volatile and aggressive mindset, exploring themes of power, control, self-destruction, and the desire for an unfulfilled ideal.