Hexagram

Deftones' song 'Hexagram' is a visceral exploration of the chaotic and often violent nature of modern life. The opening line, 'Paint the streets in white! Death is the standard,' sets a stark and unsettling tone, suggesting a world where death and destruction are commonplace. The 'complex prize' mentioned could be interpreted as the elusive search for meaning or success in a world that seems to be falling apart. The lyrics convey a sense of disillusionment and critique of societal norms, where even acts of kindness ('I think it's sweet of you') are met with skepticism and a sense of inevitability.

The recurring chant of 'Worship! Play!' serves as a powerful metaphor for the duality of human existence. On one hand, it represents the blind devotion to societal expectations and norms ('Worship!'), and on the other, the escapism and distraction provided by entertainment and superficial pleasures ('Play!'). This duality is further emphasized by the imagery of swelling streets and animals making their way through crowds, symbolizing the primal instincts and chaos that lie beneath the surface of civilized society.

The song also touches on themes of surveillance and the media's role in shaping perceptions. Lines like 'And the camera makes you seasick!' and 'And the car bomb hits quick click, faint smile!' highlight the desensitization to violence and the way media can manipulate emotions and reality. The repeated phrase 'It's the same sound' underscores the monotony and predictability of these cycles of violence and media sensationalism. 'Hexagram' ultimately serves as a poignant commentary on the complexities and contradictions of modern life, urging listeners to question the world around them and the roles they play within it.