Greed Killing

Napalm Death's 'Greed Killing' is a powerful critique of the destructive nature of greed and its pervasive impact on society. The song opens with a sense of disorientation and misplaced trust, highlighting how individuals are often misled by deceptive appearances. The 'smiling face of distruct' suggests a facade that hides the true intentions of those driven by greed. The lyrics speak to the deep-seated seeds of greed planted within us, preparing us for an inevitable downfall.

The chorus, 'The greed killing!', serves as a stark reminder of the central theme. It emphasizes how greed leads to the 'butchery of feelings,' where human emotions and relationships are sacrificed for material gain. The repeated phrase 'The lust denied is need' underscores the insatiable nature of greed, where desires are never truly satisfied, leading to a perpetual cycle of wanting more.

The song also delves into the existential impact of greed. The lines 'Existence is a steady flow, the moulded image grows' suggest that our lives are shaped by external pressures and societal expectations, leaving little room for genuine self-expression. The lack of 'core' or 'faith in what you are' points to a loss of identity and purpose, exacerbated by the relentless pursuit of material wealth. The questions posed in the latter part of the song, 'How much can we give? How much can we take?' challenge the listener to reflect on the limits of human endurance and the moral cost of greed.

'Greed Killing' is a raw and unflinching examination of how greed corrupts and dehumanizes, urging us to reconsider our values and the true cost of our desires.