Meaning of "Black Honey" by Thrice

The lyrics of "Black Honey" explore the theme of desire and perseverance. The act of swinging a hand through a swarm of bees represents the narrator's relentless pursuit of what they want, even if it brings pain or difficulty. The bees symbolize the challenges and obstacles that one often encounters in life. The repeated line, "But I'll do what I want, I'll do what I please," demonstrates the narrator's determination and refusal to be deterred by setbacks.

The desire for honey on the table symbolizes a longing for success or fulfillment. The narrator's repeated failures, highlighted by the line "But I never get it right," suggest a sense of frustration and disappointment. Despite these setbacks, the narrator remains undeterred, continuing to swing their hand until they achieve their goal. This persistence is portrayed as both admirable and possibly destructive, as seen in the references to ripping through a hornet's nest and burning colorful butterflies.

The second half of the song introduces a shift in perspective. The narrator describes cutting a branch off a cherry tree and singing of victory, but then realizes that their pursuit has consequences. Others, represented by friends and family, become victims of the bees' stings. This suggests that the narrator's singular focus on their own desires has unintended repercussions. The line "And now they're stinging my friends and my family" evokes a sense of guilt and regret.

Overall, the lyrics of "Black Honey" convey a message about the pursuit of one's desires and the toll it can potentially take on oneself and others. It highlights the importance of balance and considering the impact of one's actions on those around them.