Eating Like Kings

Shawn James' song 'Eating Like Kings' delves into the dark and complex themes of survival, guilt, and the human condition. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where violence and moral compromise are part of the daily struggle. The opening lines, 'I've let the sun set three hundred sixty five times / With murder running deep in my heart,' suggest a prolonged period of inner turmoil and guilt. The narrator acknowledges their indirect role in acts of violence, highlighting the pervasive nature of complicity in a 'snake eat snake world.' This metaphor underscores the ruthless and predatory nature of human interactions, where survival often comes at the cost of others.

The recurring line, 'Tonight, boys, we're eating like kings,' serves as a stark contrast to the grim reality described in the verses. It suggests a temporary reprieve or celebration amidst the chaos, a momentary escape from the constant presence of death and guilt. This duality reflects the human tendency to seek moments of joy and normalcy even in the darkest times. The reference to 'six thousand years later' and the 'apple getting harder to chew' alludes to the biblical story of the Fall of Man, implying that humanity has been grappling with the consequences of its actions for millennia.

The song also touches on the difficulty of moving past traumatic experiences. The lines, 'It's been a few years and a couple hundred sunsets / Since I fired a rifle in rage,' indicate a passage of time and an attempt to leave behind a violent past. However, the narrator admits that despite material comforts ('a dozen leather couches and substance filled pouches'), they are unable to fully escape their memories and guilt. This ongoing struggle highlights the enduring impact of past actions on one's psyche and the challenge of finding redemption or peace.