Western Eyes

Portishead's 'Western Eyes' is a haunting critique of Western society's moral and ethical contradictions. The song opens with the lines 'Forgotten throes at another's lie / The heart of love is their only light,' suggesting a world where genuine emotions and love are overshadowed by deceit and falsehoods. The phrase 'Faithless greeds consolidating / Holding down sweet charity' further emphasizes the dominance of selfishness and greed over altruism and kindness. The 'western eyes and serpent's breath' metaphorically represent the duplicitous nature of Western culture, where outward appearances often mask inner corruption.

The chorus, 'But I'm aching / At the view / Yes I'm breaking / At the scenes just like you,' reveals a shared sense of disillusionment and emotional pain. The singer feels a deep connection with the listener, both of whom are troubled by the hypocrisy they witness. The lines 'They have values of a certain taste / The innocent they can hardly wait / To crucify invalidating / Turning to dishonesty' criticize the selective morality and eagerness to judge others, often leading to the marginalization of the innocent and the perpetuation of dishonesty.

The song concludes with a stark portrayal of despair: 'I feel so cold / On hookers and gin / This mess we're in.' This imagery paints a bleak picture of a society numbing itself with vices to escape the harsh realities it has created. Portishead's trip-hop style, characterized by its melancholic melodies and atmospheric soundscapes, perfectly complements the song's themes of disillusionment and moral decay. 'Western Eyes' serves as a powerful commentary on the ethical failings of Western society, urging listeners to reflect on their own values and the world around them.