Meaning of "Unretrofied" by The Dillinger Escape Plan

The lyrics of "Unretrofied" by The Dillinger Escape Plan delve into themes of fragmentation and disillusionment. The repetition of the question "Is the can half diseased or is the disease half canned?" highlights the blurred boundaries and contradictions inherent in human existence. The narrator is trying to understand the balance between humanity and technology, questioning whether humans are becoming more robotic or machines more human-like. This struggle is further emphasized by the line "And is the man half machine or is the machine half man?" In this way, the song comments on the dehumanizing effects of modern society and the loss of individuality.

The repeated phrase "I'm unretrofied for you" suggests a sense of dissociation and alienation. The narrator feels disconnected from their authentic self and is trying to fit into societal expectations or the demands of a specific person. By stating that they will "just fake it in the end" and "save it for a new song and leave dead in the end," the narrator reveals a willingness to suppress their genuine feelings and put on a façade. The repetition of this theme throughout the song highlights the pressure to conform and the sacrifices individuals make to meet these expectations.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of time being wasted. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of existence and the notion that life can feel like a series of monotonous and unending tasks. The line "Wood-paneled wagon carpool dragons killing me again" suggests a sense of being overwhelmed by the mundane and repetitive aspects of life, symbolized by the metaphorical dragons that consume the narrator.

Religious themes are also present in the lyrics. The line "Jesus can't play the music 'cause he's nailed to the cross" alludes to the inability to find solace or escape from religious figures or traditional sources of spiritual guidance. The following line, "And over gnawed-off feet I find that I can't walk, I can't walk," further emphasizes the feelings of disempowerment and trapped emotions.

Overall, "Unretrofied" conveys a sense of disillusionment and hopelessness. The lyrics suggest a struggle to maintain one's sense of self in an increasingly dehumanizing world. The song explores themes of conformity, the loss of individuality, and the inevitability of death. It serves as a critique of societal pressures and norms, revealing the feelings of alienation experienced by the narrator.