Steel Still Rusts

Nickelback's song "Steel Still Rusts" delves into the poignant and often overlooked aftermath of war, focusing on the personal sacrifices and the subsequent neglect faced by veterans. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man who, despite his grandmother's warnings, enlists in the military and experiences the harsh realities of war. The advice to pursue a safer, more stable career contrasts sharply with the grim fate that awaits many soldiers, highlighting the generational wisdom that often goes unheeded.

The chorus, with its recurring line "Ashes to ashes, turns out steel still rusts," serves as a powerful metaphor for the enduring impact of war. Steel, often associated with strength and resilience, is revealed to be vulnerable to decay, much like the soldiers who are expected to be unbreakable but are ultimately human. The song critiques the fleeting nature of societal praise for veterans, who are celebrated in the moment but quickly forgotten, their names etched in stone as a hollow tribute.

The narrative continues with the veteran's return to civilian life, where he struggles to find his place. The transition from a soldier to a doorman and bodyguard underscores the difficulty many veterans face in reintegrating into society. The lack of a hero's welcome and the enduring emotional scars are stark reminders of the cost of service. The song's closing lines, which reference the "line of crosses in a field," poignantly capture the permanent loss and the collective amnesia that often follows. Nickelback's raw and evocative storytelling in "Steel Still Rusts" serves as a sobering reminder of the true cost of war and the need for genuine support and recognition for those who serve.