Tension

KoRn's song 'Tension' delves into the darker aspects of human emotion and societal interactions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world filled with hatred, deceit, and emotional turmoil. The opening lines, 'I'm plowing through a crowd of worthless hatred / That's falling down, at least they start to fry,' suggest a sense of overwhelming negativity and the desire to escape or replace those who perpetuate it. This sets the stage for a narrative that explores the struggle to cope with internal and external conflicts.

The recurring theme of deceit is evident in lines like 'These are the times of the waking liar / Hold him close or you will expire.' This metaphorical 'waking liar' represents the pervasive dishonesty and manipulation in society. The song suggests that clinging to falsehoods or deceptive individuals can lead to one's downfall. The phrase 'Total deceit' encapsulates the pervasive nature of this dishonesty, highlighting the difficulty of finding truth and authenticity in a world filled with lies.

The chorus, 'I like to lose hope / Recede and cope / Like a beautiful rape / These things, aren't they great?' is particularly striking. It juxtaposes the act of losing hope with the concept of coping, suggesting a paradoxical relationship between despair and survival. The use of the term 'beautiful rape' is jarring and provocative, likely intended to shock and provoke thought about the ways in which people find beauty or solace in even the most traumatic experiences. The song's exploration of these dark themes is a hallmark of KoRn's style, known for its raw, emotional intensity and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

The final lines, 'I love the things that make you upset / The more you hurt, the stronger I get,' reveal a sadistic pleasure in the suffering of others. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the cyclical nature of pain and power, where one's suffering can fuel another's sense of strength or superiority. Overall, 'Tension' is a powerful exploration of the darker sides of human nature, challenging listeners to confront the uncomfortable realities of hatred, deceit, and emotional pain.