Spiders

Slipknot's song 'Spiders' delves into the complexities of inner turmoil and the human condition. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of isolation and the struggle to maintain one's identity amidst external pressures. The opening lines, 'Well you can go it alone, I'll keep it in between / The pages of the book she burns and no one gets to read,' suggest a sense of secrecy and the burden of carrying hidden truths. The metaphor of 'the book she burns' implies that valuable knowledge or experiences are being destroyed or kept from others, adding to the feeling of isolation.

The recurring imagery of spiders 'coming in side by side, two by two and night by night' serves as a powerful metaphor for the creeping anxieties and fears that invade one's mind. The question 'Who is food and who is thrown away?' highlights the survivalist mentality that can arise in such situations, where individuals are constantly evaluating their worth and place in the world. This line also suggests a sense of predation and vulnerability, as if one is always at risk of being consumed by their own fears or by others.

The song also touches on the theme of self-reflection and the difficulty of confronting one's true self. Lines like 'But your real world isn't ready to face / The face behind the real me' indicate a struggle with authenticity and the fear of being truly seen. The repeated mention of 'spiders' underscores the pervasive nature of these inner demons, suggesting that they are an ever-present force that must be continually managed. Ultimately, 'Spiders' is a haunting exploration of the human psyche, filled with dark imagery and existential questions that resonate deeply with listeners.