they're all around us

Poppy's song "they're all around us" delves into themes of betrayal, disillusionment, and the pervasive presence of deceitful individuals in our lives. The opening lines, "Stab me in the back and you don't think twice," set the tone for a narrative filled with treachery and the pain of being wronged by those once trusted. The lyrics suggest a world where genuine connections are rare, and performative actions replace true amity, leading to a sense of vilification and horror.

The chorus, with its haunting repetition of "they're all around us," emphasizes the omnipresence of these deceitful figures. Poppy questions the integrity of those around her, highlighting the difficulty of trusting anyone in a world where betrayal is commonplace. The imagery of a "black and blue" spirit and deserted heroes paints a picture of profound emotional and moral injury, suggesting that even those who are supposed to be paragons of virtue can falter and abandon their principles.

The song also touches on the idea of falsehoods and performative actions, with lines like "Wave your false flag" and "Traitors all around." This critique extends to societal and possibly political contexts, where individuals or groups may present a facade of righteousness while engaging in corrupt or harmful behaviors. The mention of "ignorance as a poison" fed to children underscores the cyclical nature of deceit and the perpetuation of harmful ideologies. Ultimately, Poppy's lyrics serve as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of betrayal and the importance of vigilance in discerning truth from deception.