Rotten Soil

Entombed's song 'Rotten Soil' delves into the dark and chaotic realms of the human psyche, exploring themes of corruption, inner turmoil, and the inevitable consequences of one's actions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a descent into madness, where the protagonist is invited to 'touch the grass on the other side' and meet the devil, symbolizing a confrontation with one's darkest fears and desires. This journey is marked by a rejection of previously held beliefs and a willingness to embrace violence and destruction, as suggested by the line 'Strike down what you believe in, get it done with a gun.'

The imagery of 'eggs hatching inside your head' and a 'little feeble body soon will crawl' evokes a sense of infestation and decay, highlighting the mental and physical deterioration that accompanies this descent. The red grass, which 'is red just for a while,' symbolizes fleeting moments of clarity or sanity amidst the chaos. The recurring theme of blood, particularly 'blood pissing down your spine,' underscores the visceral and painful nature of this transformation.

Ultimately, the song suggests that once one has walked on 'rotten soil,' there is no turning back. The 'infected blood will boil,' indicating that the corruption has taken root and will continue to fester. The final lines, 'It's hard to take a stand but it's harder to take a fall, open the lid of your own casket,' serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of one's actions and the inevitability of facing one's own mortality. Entombed's raw and aggressive musical style amplifies the intensity of these themes, making 'Rotten Soil' a powerful exploration of the darker aspects of the human experience.