Pillar Of Davidson
Live
The Struggle of Human Existence in 'Pillar Of Davidson'
Live's song 'Pillar Of Davidson' delves into the complexities of human existence, touching on themes of industrialization, loneliness, and the search for meaning. The opening lines, 'Warm bodies, I sense / are not machines that can only make money,' immediately set the tone for a critique of a society that values productivity over humanity. The lyrics suggest a longing for something more profound than the mechanical, profit-driven life that many people lead. This sentiment is further emphasized by the repeated phrase 'old, bad eyes,' which could symbolize a jaded perspective on life, worn down by the relentless demands of modern society.
The song also explores the theme of loneliness, as seen in the lines 'on loneliness comes / go see the foreman, go see the profiteer.' Here, loneliness is portrayed as a driving force that pushes individuals towards the very systems that exploit them. The 'foreman' and 'profiteer' represent the industrial and capitalist structures that benefit from human labor while offering little in return. The phrase 'we're takin' our time movin' shit for this holy slime' further underscores the dehumanizing nature of such work, describing it as a slow, soul-sucking process.
The chorus introduces the figure of the 'shepherd,' a metaphor for a guiding force or authority that is both intrusive and inescapable. 'The shepherd won't leave me alone / he's in my face and I / the shepherd of my days' suggests a constant, oppressive presence that dictates one's actions and thoughts. Despite this, there is a yearning for connection and love, as expressed in 'I want you here by my heart / and my head, I can't start till I'm dead.' This line encapsulates the struggle between external pressures and internal desires, highlighting the human need for emotional fulfillment amidst a life of labor and obligation.
The background words add another layer of complexity, with phrases like 'locking horns with the stallion' and 'pillar of Davidson feeling too hard to go down' evoking images of struggle and resistance. The 'pillar of Davidson' could symbolize a monumental challenge or burden that is difficult to overcome, yet the speaker continues to 'hold my head up,' indicating resilience and determination. Ultimately, 'Pillar Of Davidson' is a poignant reflection on the human condition, exploring the tension between societal expectations and personal aspirations.