Ego

Rag'n'Bone Man's song 'Ego' delves into the destructive nature of arrogance and self-importance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is trapped in a cycle of self-delusion, constantly going in circles without any real progress. The metaphor of a 'roundabout' and 'building blocks' with 'no exit' suggests a life built on false pretenses and superficial achievements. This person is so consumed by their own perceived perfection that they fail to see the reality of their situation.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'Ego, Ego, Bang bang baby, down you fall,' serves as a stark reminder that arrogance often leads to one's downfall. The phrase 'Ain't you mister know it all?' is a direct jab at those who believe they have all the answers, only to be proven wrong. Rag'n'Bone Man's assertion that he 'knows his gospel but ain't a preacher' indicates that he understands the truth but doesn't feel the need to preach it—yet he recognizes the necessity of bursting the bubble of those who are deluded by their own ego.

The song also touches on the societal fascination with failure and downfall, as seen in the lines 'I bet you stopped to see the car crash, didn't you?' This reflects how people are often drawn to the spectacle of someone's failure, reinforcing the idea that arrogance and hubris are not sustainable. The final repetition of 'Something's got to give' underscores the inevitable collapse that comes from living a life of delusion and self-importance. Rag'n'Bone Man's powerful vocals and poignant lyrics make 'Ego' a compelling critique of the dangers of arrogance and the importance of humility.