White Washed

August Burns Red's song 'White Washed' is a powerful anthem of defiance against hypocrisy and imposed moral standards. The lyrics challenge the listener to question the controlling values and beliefs that others try to impose on them. The opening lines, 'Push your controlling values aside, and dissect your own life,' set the tone for a song that is about personal choice and the rejection of external judgment. The band emphasizes that it's not about conforming to someone else's beliefs but about making one's own decisions.

The repeated lines, 'You ask me to be blameless, but who are you to decide what's right?' highlight the frustration and anger towards those who impose their moral standards on others. The song's protagonist feels suffocated by these expectations and is ready to stand up against them. The metaphor of 'the straw that's crushing my back' and 'the salt that's burning my wounds' vividly illustrates the pain and burden of dealing with such hypocrisy. These lines convey a sense of being overwhelmed and hurt by the constant judgment and pressure to conform.

Despite the anger and defiance, there is also a sense of gratitude in the lyrics. The line 'However, I thank you for this pen and ink ammunition' suggests that the protagonist has found inspiration and strength through this struggle. The song becomes a declaration of independence and self-empowerment, as the protagonist refuses to be silenced or controlled. 'White Washed' is a call to reject hypocrisy and embrace personal freedom, making it a resonant and impactful piece for anyone who has felt judged or constrained by others' expectations.