Skeptic

Slipknot's song 'Skeptic' is a powerful tribute to a fallen friend and bandmate, Paul Gray, who passed away in 2010. The lyrics are filled with raw emotion, reflecting the band's grief and admiration for Gray. The song opens with a sense of fate and destiny, suggesting that unique individuals like Gray are rare and precious. The reference to 'Hiroshima on a Sunday' evokes a sense of sudden, catastrophic loss, emphasizing the impact of Gray's death on those who knew him.

The chorus repeatedly asserts that the world will never see another person like Gray, highlighting his unique qualities and the void his absence has left. The lyrics describe Gray as a 'legend,' 'hero,' and 'martyr,' underscoring his significance to the band and their fans. The song also touches on the duality of his life, describing him as both a 'blessing and a curse,' which may refer to the struggles he faced, including his battle with addiction.

The song's emotional intensity is further amplified by the repeated declarations of anger and frustration, as well as the vow to keep Gray's memory alive. The lyrics 'I won't let you disappear' and 'I will keep your soul alive if I can't have you here' convey a deep sense of loyalty and determination to honor Gray's legacy. The song ends on a poignant note, with the repeated assertion that the world will never see another person like Gray, cementing his place as an irreplaceable figure in the band's history and in the hearts of those who loved him.