Meaning of "Slither" by Velvet Revolver

"Slither" is a song that explores the destructiveness of a toxic relationship. The lyrics depict a relationship where the narrator is constantly being manipulated and taken advantage of by their partner. The imagery of looking through and seeing right through the narrator suggests that they feel exposed and vulnerable in the relationship. The lines "Born and broken every single time" and "Born and bloodied every single time" indicate a repetitive cycle of pain and harm inflicted by the partner. The narrator feels powerless and trapped, always kept under the partner's control, represented by the line "Always keep me under finger."

The analogy of water is used throughout the song to convey the destructive nature of the relationship. The water is described as coming to wash away the sins of both the narrator and their partner. This suggests that their actions towards each other have caused harm and guilt. The line "Like holy water, it only burns you faster than you'd ever dry" indicates that even though water is traditionally seen as a source of cleansing and purification, in this context, it brings only pain and exacerbates the situation.

Overall, the lyrics of "Slither" paint a bleak picture of a relationship filled with manipulation, pain, and a sense of powerlessness. The repeated "Hey, hey, hey" in the chorus creates a sense of urgency and frustration, as if the narrator is pleading to be heard and understood. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the damaging effects of toxic relationships and the need for liberation from such harmful dynamics.