Anthrax
Dreams Infected: Unraveling Kimya Dawson's Anthrax Allegory
Lyrics
There's anthrax in the envelope I opened in my dream
Metaphorical reference to a threatening situation or fear in the dream.
The sky is red and little kids are running, screaming in the street
Imagery of a chaotic and dangerous scene with a vivid description of a red sky and terrified children.
I tried to run and save them but I had molasses feet
Expresses the inability to help or escape, possibly symbolizing a feeling of powerlessness.
I keep having nightmares and I'm scared to go to sleep
Indication of recurring nightmares leading to fear of sleep.
If you fall in I'll jump down
Offering support and solidarity; a willingness to face challenges together.
And touch your face while we're both sinking
Symbolic gesture of connection despite difficulties ("stinking thinking").
(stinking thinking) we won't drown
Emphasizes the strength of their bond and the belief that they won't be overwhelmed.
You are my friend
Affirmation of friendship as a crucial element in facing life's challenges.
And what we're doing's too important
Highlighting the importance of their shared mission or purpose.
For our lives to end quite yet
Expressing determination to continue living purposefully despite difficulties.
In Montreal I got so mad, someone broke into the van
Narrating an incident of anger and loss, possibly reflecting on personal struggles.
Stole my guitar and Aaron's bag
Describing a theft that adds to the challenges they face.
Then we turned on CNN, watched the towers fall again
Recalling the impact of a significant historical event (towers falling), providing perspective on their own situation.
And realized that our lives aren't so bad
Finding a silver lining and realizing their lives aren't as bad as they seem.
This is just a test take it with love and you will pass
Encouraging a positive mindset, viewing challenges as tests that can be overcome with love.
You will be rewarded if you do your very best
Promoting the idea that effort and love lead to rewards in life.
Nothing ever goes as planned so don't take anything for granted
Cautioning against taking things for granted due to the unpredictability of life.
If you do the world will kick your ass
Warning that complacency may lead to negative consequences.
The air is filled with computers and carpets
Listing various elements in the air, possibly symbolizing the complexities and challenges of life.
Skin and bones and telephones and file cabinets
Continuing the list of elements, emphasizing the mundane and diverse aspects of existence.
Coke machines, firemen, landing gear, and cement
Highlighting a mix of everyday and potentially harmful elements.
They say that it's okay but I say don't breathe in
Cautioning against accepting everything as okay, suggesting skepticism or wariness.
The air is filled with computers and carpets
Repetition of the previous set of elements, reinforcing the message of potential danger.
Skin and bones and telephones and file cabinets
Reiterating the variety of elements in the environment.
Coke machines, firemen, landing gear, and cement
Repeating the caution against breathing in potentially harmful substances.
They say that it's okay but I say don't breathe that shit in
Emphasizing the importance of avoiding harmful influences.
An angel named Gabriel is watching over you
Introducing the idea of a guardian angel named Gabriel watching over the individual.
He was a friend mistreated now he's dead so say you're sorry to him
Revealing that the angel faced mistreatment, encouraging empathy and remorse.
When you say your prayers tonight if you make amends
Suggesting that making amends and expressing regret can lead to redemption.
The gates to heaven here on earth will open up again
Imagining a positive outcome if apologies are made, hinting at personal growth.
If you fall in I'll jump down
Repeating the earlier theme of offering support and connection in challenging times.
And touch your face while we're both sinking
Reiterating the symbolic connection and resilience despite challenges.
(stinking thinking) we won't drown
Emphasizing the strength of friendship and its importance in facing difficulties.
You are my friend
Affirming the significance of their shared mission or purpose in life.
And what we're doing's too important
Stressing the determination to continue their meaningful pursuits despite challenges.
For our lives to end quite yet
Repeating the idea of the importance of their lives and mission.
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