Basic Instinct

The Acid's song 'Basic Instinct' delves into the raw and primal aspects of human existence, exploring themes of struggle, survival, and the need for respite. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels overwhelmed and exhausted, both physically and emotionally. The repetition of phrases like 'tired and gone' and 'speechless' underscores a sense of weariness and a loss of vitality, suggesting a deep-seated fatigue that permeates the individual's being.

The recurring motif of 'coming up for air' serves as a powerful metaphor for seeking relief and rejuvenation. It evokes the image of someone drowning, desperately needing to break the surface to breathe. This struggle for air symbolizes the basic human instinct to survive and the relentless fight against being submerged by life's challenges. The act of 'coming up for air' is not just a physical necessity but also an emotional and psychological one, representing the need to escape from overwhelming pressures and find a moment of clarity and peace.

The lines 'Push me back in, silent in sin, fight in water, want it, want it, basic instinct' highlight the internal conflict between the desire to give in to despair and the fundamental drive to keep fighting. The mention of 'sin' adds a layer of complexity, suggesting feelings of guilt or shame that may be contributing to the individual's struggle. Despite the exhaustion and the temptation to surrender, the 'basic instinct' to survive and persevere remains a powerful force. The repetition of 'I'm tired, I don't want it' further emphasizes the internal battle between resignation and the instinctual urge to keep going.