Attitude

Metallica's song "Attitude" delves into themes of dissatisfaction, restlessness, and an insatiable hunger for more. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is never satisfied, constantly seeking something to fill a void. The repeated phrase "Just let me kill you for a while" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the destructive tendencies that arise from this unending quest for satisfaction. The idea of cutting the roots to make the tree survive suggests a willingness to sacrifice foundational elements in pursuit of fleeting contentment.

The chorus, with its declaration of hunger and the act of eating, symbolizes a primal, almost animalistic drive. This hunger is not just for food but for experiences, emotions, and perhaps power. The imagery of vultures smiling and planning to pick someone clean further emphasizes the predatory nature of this hunger. The song suggests that satisfaction is always just out of reach, coming and going in waves, leaving the individual in a perpetual state of longing.

The phrase "Born into attitude" implies that this restless drive is inherent, a part of one's very nature. The lines about throwing bullets in the fire and running like hell evoke a sense of urgency and recklessness, as if the only way to cope with this insatiable hunger is through extreme actions. The mention of a fever and the question "What ever happened to sweat?" hint at a loss of genuine effort and hard work, replaced by a feverish, almost desperate pursuit of satisfaction. Metallica's raw and intense musical style perfectly complements the themes of the song, creating a powerful and evocative experience for the listener.