No Mercy, Only Violence

Skrillex's song 'No Mercy, Only Violence' delves into themes of rebellion, personal struggle, and societal defiance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is caught in a cycle of resistance against societal norms and expectations. The opening lines, 'Bitch made me go to church but our revolution's, revolution's so hard that it hurts,' suggest a forced conformity to religious or societal standards, juxtaposed with a deep-seated desire for revolution and change. This internal conflict is further highlighted by the act of 'stealing camels from her purse,' symbolizing small acts of rebellion against an oppressive system.

The song also touches on the protagonist's personal failures and disillusionment with traditional paths to success. The lines 'Rich men they go to work when I was 17 what an employee I turned out to be. Got fired for stealing from the register,' reflect a sense of disenchantment with the capitalist work ethic and the pursuit of wealth. The protagonist's preference to be a janitor over a senator underscores a rejection of societal prestige and power in favor of a simpler, more honest existence.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring motif of the heart beating 'too hard,' which can be interpreted as the emotional and physical toll of living in constant defiance and struggle. The advice to 'have a bit of him in there with you, to make it through the Wintertime; Autumn in long coats,' suggests finding solace and strength in personal connections and memories to endure tough times. The repeated gibberish and the phrase 'too hard' emphasize the overwhelming nature of these struggles, creating a sense of urgency and intensity that permeates the entire song.