Becoming

Pantera's song 'Becoming' delves into the intense and transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The lyrics begin with a reflection on a past filled with shame and weakness, suggesting a time when the narrator felt insignificant and powerless. This memory of shame, however, becomes a catalyst for change, igniting a powerful transformation. The narrator declares that they are no longer the 'small one, the weak one, the frightened one,' but are instead evolving into something far greater. This transformation is driven by a burning desire to rise above and become more than what they once were, even surpassing the figure of Jesus in their quest for self-empowerment.

The imagery of being 'born again with snakes eyes' and 'becoming godsize' is particularly striking. Snakes are often associated with rebirth and transformation due to their ability to shed their skin, symbolizing the narrator's shedding of their former self. The term 'godsize' suggests an immense, almost divine level of power and self-realization. This rebirth is not just a personal evolution but a complete overhaul of identity, where the narrator embraces a new, formidable persona.

The song also touches on themes of control and dominance. The narrator speaks of manipulating others, belittling friends, and exerting a 'saving grasp' over them. This could be interpreted as a manifestation of their newfound power and confidence, albeit in a darker, more aggressive form. The mention of 'I of suicide, I the unlord' hints at a rejection of traditional religious and moral structures, embracing a more nihilistic and self-centered worldview. 'Becoming' is a raw and powerful anthem of personal transformation, shedding light on the darker aspects of self-empowerment and the complex emotions that accompany such a profound change.