Killing

KoRn's song 'Killing' delves into the dark and complex themes of manipulation, control, and the loss of individuality. The imagery of birds circling above, called back to a waiting glove, serves as a powerful metaphor for beings trapped in a cycle of control and obedience. These birds, despite having the freedom to fly away, remain tethered to an unseen force, symbolizing how individuals can be manipulated and conditioned to stay within certain confines, even when the threat is no longer present.

The lyrics explore the idea of being 'killed' not through physical means but through psychological manipulation and deceit. The repeated questioning of 'Are we killing them with lies?' and 'Are they fighting for their lives?' highlights the internal struggle and the impact of mental manipulation. The reference to Pavlov's dogs underscores the concept of conditioned responses, where individuals are trained to react in specific ways, often against their own best interests. This conditioning leads to a loss of genuine emotion and individuality, as suggested by the line 'killing every single feeling.'

The song also touches on the broader societal implications of this manipulation. The phrase 'We're all preset to reset to dumb' suggests a critique of how society conditions people to conform and suppress critical thinking. The aggressive repetition of 'ARE WE KILLING THEM?' towards the end of the song amplifies the urgency and desperation of this message. It calls into question the ways in which societal norms and pressures can strip away personal autonomy and reduce individuals to mere followers, devoid of true self-awareness and agency.

KoRn's 'Killing' is a powerful commentary on the insidious nature of psychological control and the ways in which it can erode personal freedom and identity. The song's intense and haunting lyrics serve as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining individuality and resisting the forces that seek to manipulate and control.