Boiled Frogs

Alexisonfire's 'Boiled Frogs' delves into the existential dread and disillusionment that comes with the monotony of everyday life. The song opens with the image of an old man at his desk, waiting for retirement, symbolizing the end of a long, unfulfilling journey. This character is emblematic of many who find themselves trapped in a cycle of work, unsure of what to do as the years pass and the workload grows. The lyrics reflect a sense of regret and missed opportunities, as the narrator wishes for things to come their way but always finds themselves too late.

The chorus, 'Count your blessings on one hand,' suggests a scarcity of positive experiences or achievements, highlighting the narrator's feeling of emptiness. The reference to the 'tin man' from 'The Wizard of Oz,' still swinging his axe despite being rusted, serves as a powerful metaphor for the relentless grind of daily life. The tin man, who lacks a heart, mirrors the emotional numbness that can result from years of repetitive, unfulfilling work.

The song also touches on themes of betrayal and disillusionment with the corporate world. The line 'Can't help but feel betrayed, punch the clock every single day' captures the frustration of working in an environment that lacks loyalty and remorse. The narrator's plea, 'Wait up, I'm not sleeping alone again tonight,' signifies a desperate need for connection and meaning beyond the mundane routine. The song ends on a poignant note, with the narrator acknowledging that their youth is slipping away and that they are caught between light and shallow waves, a metaphor for the superficiality of their existence.