Vultures

Kittie's song 'Vultures' delves into the theme of exploitation and the predatory nature of those who seek to benefit from the suffering of others. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels surrounded by vultures, metaphorically representing individuals or entities that prey on the vulnerable. The opening lines, 'This is your last supper / I will give my body no longer,' suggest a refusal to continue being a source of sustenance for these predators, indicating a moment of defiance and self-preservation.

The imagery of 'Feathers and beaks on bones and teeth' and 'The vultures come to pick it all' emphasizes the relentless and gruesome nature of exploitation. The vultures symbolize those who thrive on the misfortunes of others, scavenging whatever remains. The repetition of 'Vultures are circling me' underscores the feeling of being constantly watched and targeted by these opportunistic forces. This sense of being hunted and consumed is a powerful metaphor for the emotional and psychological toll of being exploited.

The song also touches on themes of resilience and resistance. Lines like 'I will never bow down / Concede' highlight a determination to stand firm against these predatory forces. The reference to 'carrion dressed in Sunday best' suggests a facade of respectability that hides the true nature of the exploitation. The final lines, 'Scavengers, enjoy your feast,' serve as a bitter acknowledgment of the reality of being preyed upon, but also a challenge to those who exploit, indicating that their victory is hollow and ultimately unsatisfying.

'Vultures' by Kittie is a powerful anthem of defiance against exploitation, using vivid and visceral imagery to convey the emotional impact of being preyed upon and the strength required to resist and survive.