Soul Bleach

Parkway Drive's 'Soul Bleach' is a visceral exploration of betrayal, trust, and the darker aspects of human nature. The song opens with the word 'Poison,' immediately setting a tone of toxicity and danger. The repeated phrase 'Soul bleach' suggests a desire to cleanse or purify one's inner self from the corruption and pain inflicted by others. The lyrics are raw and confrontational, reflecting a deep sense of disillusionment and anger.

The protagonist in the song is portrayed as an anti-hero, someone who embraces their role as a villain rather than striving to be a hero. Lines like 'Never born to be the hero, I'm the villain you deserve' and 'Heart of stone, black as tar' highlight a sense of resignation to a darker fate. The repeated emphasis on trust as a dangerous thing that must be 'killed' to achieve freedom underscores the theme of betrayal. Trust is depicted as a vulnerability that can lead to one's downfall, and the only way to survive is to eliminate it entirely.

The song also delves into the idea of personal transformation through suffering. The lyrics 'Know you will bleed, know you will suffer' suggest that pain is an inevitable part of life, but it can also be a catalyst for change. The protagonist's journey is marked by a series of betrayals and hardships, culminating in a hardened, almost nihilistic worldview. The closing lines, 'Let the past die, kill it if you have to,' encapsulate the song's message of letting go of the past and embracing a new, albeit darker, identity. 'Soul Bleach' is a powerful anthem for those who have been scarred by betrayal and are seeking a way to reclaim their sense of self, even if it means becoming the villain in their own story.