Wicked Man's Rest

Passenger Passenger

The Duality of Human Nature in 'Wicked Man's Rest'

Passenger's 'Wicked Man's Rest' delves deep into the complexities of human nature, exploring the inherent duality within each individual. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the internal struggle between good and evil, innocence and corruption. The repeated line, 'I'm only as bad as the maker who made me,' suggests a contemplation of predestination and the influence of external forces on one's character. This line implies that our flaws and sins are, in part, a reflection of the world and circumstances that shape us.

The song is rich with metaphors and imagery that highlight the contrasts within human experience. Phrases like 'sinner in the darkness, liar in the church' and 'deaf man's silence, the blind man's search' juxtapose elements of purity and corruption, illustrating the internal conflicts that everyone faces. The 'beast in you, the beast in me' serves as a powerful metaphor for the darker aspects of our personalities that we often try to suppress or deny. This beast represents bitterness, jealousy, and the parts of ourselves that never rest, constantly gnawing at our conscience.

Culturally, 'Wicked Man's Rest' resonates with themes of existentialism and the search for meaning in a flawed world. The song's references to 'the lump in the throat' and 'the hole in your coat' evoke a sense of vulnerability and imperfection that is universally relatable. Passenger's folk-influenced musical style, characterized by introspective lyrics and emotive melodies, enhances the song's contemplative mood. The artist's ability to blend personal reflection with broader philosophical questions makes 'Wicked Man's Rest' a poignant exploration of the human condition.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. Let Her Go
  2. Sword From The Stone
  3. Travelling Song
  4. Table For One
  5. Coins In a Fountain
  6. Hard To Say I'm Sorry (feat. The Once & Stu Larsen)
  7. Why Can't I Change
  8. A Song For The Drunk And Broken Hearted
  9. The One You Love
  10. Caravan
View all Passenger songs

Most popular topics in Passenger songs

Related artists

  1. Of Monsters And Men
    Of Monsters And Men
  2. A Great Big World
    A Great Big World
  3. James Blunt
    James Blunt
  4. Mumford & Sons
    Mumford & Sons
  5. The Lumineers
    The Lumineers
  6. Imagine Dragons
    Imagine Dragons
  7. The Script
    The Script
  8. Gregory Alan Isakov
    Gregory Alan Isakov