Meaning of "Setting Fire to Sleeping Giants" by The Dillinger Escape Plan

"Setting Fire to Sleeping Giants" explores themes of discontentment, rebellion, and the pursuit of something greater. The lyrics initially address someone who appears worn out and exhausted, encouraging them to find respite and escape in their imagination. There is a yearning for a different reality, a longing for a world beyond the mundane.

The lyrics capture a sense of defiance, urging the listener to shed pretenses and adopt a more confrontational approach to life. The metaphor of pushing one's face into the fight suggests a willingness to embrace challenges and confrontations head-on, regardless of the consequences.

The song also delves into the seductive power of forbidden pleasures. The reference to "stranger's candy" implies indulgence in dangerous and thrilling experiences. These experiences transport the individual to hidden corners of society, depicted as broken alleys and back streets. The allure of these forbidden pleasures is both exciting and intoxicating, providing an escape from the monotony of everyday life.

However, the lyrics also touch upon the destructive nature of obsession. The line "Baby you can have it" suggests a surrender to these alluring temptations, even if they lead to one's downfall. The reference to being gnawed down to the bone and never being taken back home implies an irreversible loss of innocence or a descent into darkness. This obsession is further reinforced through the mention of a "very last show" and the offer to show the listener places they would never want to leave. It implies a sense of self-destruction and a willingness to abandon all sense of safety or normalcy.

Overall, "Setting Fire to Sleeping Giants" explores themes of dissatisfaction with the status quo, the allure of forbidden pleasures, and the destructive nature of obsession. It urges listeners to question societal norms and embrace a more rebellious and adventurous approach to life.