Concrete

Crystal Castles' song 'Concrete' delves into themes of uncertainty, control, and the human condition. The lyrics are cryptic and laden with dark imagery, reflecting the band's signature style of blending electronic music with haunting, often unsettling themes. The repeated phrase 'For nothing is concrete' serves as a central motif, suggesting that nothing in life is certain or permanent. This idea is reinforced by the imagery of 'crawling for the grave,' which evokes a sense of inevitable mortality and the futility of seeking permanence in an impermanent world.

The song also explores themes of control and submission. Lines like 'Strangle while you pray' and 'Demand that they're diseased' suggest a power dynamic where one entity exerts control over another, possibly reflecting societal or religious structures that demand conformity and obedience. The plea 'Father, pray to me' could be interpreted as a reversal of traditional roles, where the supplicant demands something from a higher power, highlighting a sense of desperation and the breakdown of established hierarchies.

The recurring imagery of swings and wreaths adds another layer of meaning. Swings, often associated with childhood and innocence, contrast sharply with wreaths, which are commonly linked to death and mourning. This juxtaposition underscores the song's exploration of life's fleeting nature and the thin line between life and death. The act of 'laying the concrete' could symbolize an attempt to create something lasting, yet the song's overall message suggests that such efforts are ultimately in vain. Crystal Castles uses these metaphors to paint a bleak but thought-provoking picture of human existence, challenging listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths about life, death, and the illusion of permanence.