The Experiment

Steampianist's song 'The Experiment' delves into the harrowing consequences of a failed scientific endeavor, exploring themes of madness, human nature, and the fragility of sanity. The lyrics tell the story of five men who were subjected to an experiment that promised them a chance at life but ultimately led to their mental and physical deterioration. The imagery of 'deteriorated minds' and 'tore at flesh like snakes' paints a vivid picture of their descent into madness, highlighting the destructive impact of the experiment on their humanity.

The chorus, with its repeated assertion 'We are you,' serves as a chilling reminder that the madness and primal instincts exhibited by the subjects are inherent in all of us. This line suggests that the darkness within the human psyche is universal, lurking beneath the surface and capable of emerging under certain conditions. The reference to 'the animal instinct of greed' further emphasizes the idea that these primal urges are a fundamental part of human nature, often suppressed but never entirely eradicated.

The song also touches on the theme of forgotten history and the consequences of neglecting the lessons of the past. The line 'Have you forgotten so easily?' questions society's tendency to overlook the darker aspects of human nature and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. The mention of 'the commies' and their ignorance of the potential for sanity to be nullified adds a historical and political dimension to the narrative, suggesting that the experiment may have been conducted in a context of ideological conflict and moral ambiguity. Through its haunting lyrics and evocative imagery, 'The Experiment' serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the enduring presence of madness within the human soul.