Punching Bag

Palaye Royale's song 'Punching Bag' delves into the harrowing experience of being exploited and dehumanized, particularly in the context of fame and public scrutiny. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels used and discarded, likening themselves to a 'punching bag' for others to vent their frustrations and insecurities. The repeated line 'Go on, make my day, go get high on my mistakes' suggests a sense of resignation and bitterness, as if the protagonist has accepted their role as a scapegoat for others' problems.

The song also explores themes of identity and self-worth. Lines like 'You’re real, I'm just a fake' and 'I can be your barbie, I can say sorry, I can do whatever you want' highlight the pressure to conform to others' expectations, often at the cost of one's own authenticity. The protagonist feels like a commodity, 'bought and sold,' and struggles with the loss of their true self, as indicated by 'Heaven’s what they sold me, but now I miss the old me.' This internal conflict is further emphasized by the line 'My soul has died,' suggesting a deep sense of despair and disillusionment.

The song's climax reveals a breaking point, where the protagonist acknowledges the toll this exploitation has taken on them. 'This is goodbye, you bled me dry' signifies a final farewell to the toxic relationships and circumstances that have drained them emotionally and spiritually. The plea 'Someone find me, someone save me' underscores a desperate need for rescue and redemption, a cry for help from someone who feels like they are 'fucking dying.' Through its raw and unfiltered lyrics, 'Punching Bag' offers a poignant commentary on the darker aspects of fame and the human cost of being constantly in the public eye.