Jars

Chevelle's song 'Jars' delves into the complex and often contradictory relationship humans have with the environment. The lyrics open with a plea to 'hold onto chance' and 'save for the pets,' suggesting a desperate attempt to preserve what little remains of the natural world. The metaphor of putting things 'into jars' symbolizes a futile effort to contain and protect the earth, highlighting the fragility of our ecological balance. This imagery evokes a sense of urgency and helplessness, as if the only way to save the planet is through artificial means, which may ultimately be insufficient.

The recurring line 'We can't both become the same pawn that's made to fall' speaks to the idea of shared responsibility and the interconnectedness of our actions. The mention of 'oil that tastes like blood' is a powerful metaphor for the environmental destruction caused by human greed and industrialization. This line suggests that the exploitation of natural resources is not only harmful to the planet but also to ourselves, as it 'steals the summer scent'—a metaphor for the loss of natural beauty and purity. The imagery of stabbing and betrayal further emphasizes the self-destructive nature of these actions, as we harm ourselves and others in the process.

The song also touches on the theme of consumerism and its impact on the environment. Lines like 'steal from yourselves' and 'feed from their hands' critique the way society is manipulated by trends and superficial desires. The phrase 'feeling manic for a day' reflects the fleeting satisfaction that consumerism provides, which is ultimately unsustainable. The song's closing lines, 'We'll add enough of the world,' suggest a grim acceptance that our current path is leading to inevitable destruction, yet there is a lingering hope that we might still find a way to preserve what remains. Chevelle's 'Jars' serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance we must maintain to protect our planet and ourselves.