Only One

Slipknot's song 'Only One' is a raw and intense exploration of identity, survival, and defiance. The repeated phrase 'Pain, made to order' sets the tone for the song, suggesting that pain is an inevitable and custom-made part of existence. This line encapsulates the band's aggressive and confrontational style, which often delves into themes of personal struggle and societal disillusionment.

The lyrics 'I'm not the second coming, I'm the first wave' and 'Better get an army, 'cause the fire left me unscathed' highlight a sense of self-assertion and resilience. The protagonist sees themselves as a trailblazer, unscathed by the challenges they've faced. This defiance is further emphasized by the line 'You bet your bottom dollar I'm the top of the shit pile,' which conveys a sense of pride in overcoming adversity, even if it means being at the top of a less-than-ideal situation.

The chorus, 'Only one of us walks away,' underscores a theme of survival and confrontation. It suggests a zero-sum game where only the strongest or most resilient can prevail. This is a common theme in Slipknot's music, reflecting the band's own struggles and the aggressive, competitive nature of the world they perceive. The line 'I belong to only me' reinforces the idea of self-reliance and individualism, rejecting external validation or control.

The song also touches on themes of existentialism and nihilism, particularly in lines like 'You don't care 'cause you don't exist' and 'Every reason is a right to hate.' These lines suggest a deep-seated disillusionment with the world and a sense of isolation. The repeated refrain of 'Only one of us walks away' serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of life and the constant battle for survival and identity.