Keep Away

Godsmack's 'Keep Away' is a powerful anthem that delves into themes of personal boundaries and emotional resilience. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has been deeply hurt and betrayed, and who is now determined to protect themselves from further harm. The opening lines, 'Sickness spilling through your eyes / craving everything that you thought was alive,' suggest a sense of disillusionment and the realization that what was once believed to be true and alive is now seen as toxic and damaging. This sets the stage for the protagonist's firm stance on keeping harmful influences at bay.

The repeated refrain, 'Do like I told you, stay away from me / never misunderstand me, keep away from me,' serves as a clear and unyielding declaration of the need for distance and self-preservation. The use of aggressive imagery, such as 'stab me in my heart again' and 'smack me in my mouth 200 times every other day,' underscores the intensity of the emotional pain experienced by the protagonist. These lines convey a sense of being repeatedly hurt and the exhaustion that comes with enduring such treatment.

As the song progresses, the lyrics continue to emphasize the importance of maintaining boundaries. The line 'draggin' on so lonely, aren't you tired baby / breathing life into your lungs, are you immune to me' suggests a confrontation with the person causing the pain, questioning their lack of empathy and the toll it takes on both parties. The song's raw energy and defiant tone resonate with anyone who has had to assert their boundaries and protect themselves from toxic relationships. 'Keep Away' is not just a song; it's a declaration of self-worth and the courage to demand respect and distance from those who cause harm.