Exit
Killing Joke
The Dark Echoes of Survival in 'Exit' by Killing Joke
Killing Joke's song 'Exit' delves into themes of existential struggle and the relentless passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where noise and chaos are ever-present, growing darker as moments pass. This darkness is contrasted with the persistent, almost ritualistic beat of the drums, symbolizing the unyielding march of time and the inevitability of life's challenges. The repetition of the phrase 'the drums keep thundering in familiar way' suggests a sense of inevitability and the cyclical nature of life's struggles.
The mention of 'legions multiply' outside hints at the growing pressures and challenges in the external world. Despite these multiplying adversities, the refrain 'you're still alive' and 'i'm still alive' serves as a testament to human resilience and the will to survive. This juxtaposition of external chaos and internal survival reflects a common theme in Killing Joke's music, which often explores the tension between societal pressures and individual endurance.
The lines 'Getting nowhere - can't find no way / 'cos ego ego taking the fame' suggest a critique of self-centeredness and the pursuit of fame, which can lead to a sense of stagnation and discord. The phrase 'Discord dances discord earth' further emphasizes the chaotic state of the world, while 'Harvest thanks didn't go quite right' could be interpreted as a metaphor for efforts and expectations not yielding the desired results. This song encapsulates the struggle to find meaning and direction in a world filled with noise and chaos, while also highlighting the resilience required to keep moving forward despite these challenges.