Plague

Crystal Castles' song 'Plague' delves into themes of corruption, manipulation, and the loss of innocence. The lyrics paint a grim picture of a world where purity and cleanliness are demanded, yet simultaneously corrupted by external forces. The repeated plea for purity and cleanliness suggests a desire for untainted, uncorrupted states, but this is juxtaposed with the harsh reality of manipulation and exploitation. The line 'Power to misconstrue, What have they done to you' hints at the distortion of truth and the impact of external influences on an individual's integrity.

The imagery of 'Infants in infantry' and 'Rewrite their history' evokes a sense of innocence being drafted into a corrupt system, where even the youngest are not spared from manipulation. This could be interpreted as a critique of societal systems that indoctrinate and exploit individuals from a young age. The phrase 'Uproot their colony, You’re ripe for harvesting' further emphasizes the idea of exploitation, suggesting that individuals are seen as resources to be used rather than beings with autonomy.

The refrain 'I am the plague' serves as a powerful metaphor for the pervasive and destructive influence the speaker embodies or represents. It suggests a self-awareness of being part of the problem, or perhaps a recognition of the inevitability of corruption within the system. The song's dark tone and haunting lyrics reflect Crystal Castles' signature style, which often combines electronic music with themes of dystopia and disillusionment. The overall message of 'Plague' is a stark commentary on the loss of innocence and the pervasive nature of corruption in society.