Golden And Green

The Builders And The Butchers' song 'Golden And Green' delves into the themes of life's transience, the inevitability of decay, and the haunting presence of past traumas. The opening lines set a somber tone, with the imagery of closing one's eyes and floating through life as a ghost, suggesting a sense of detachment and isolation. The lyrics emphasize that time heals all wounds, but also that everything eventually dies, highlighting the dual nature of time as both a healer and a destroyer. The scars that mix nerves with blood symbolize the deep, often painful, memories that linger and shape our existence.

The recurring imagery of soldiers burning houses and belongings turning to dirt underscores the destructive forces at play in life. This destruction is not just physical but also emotional, as seen in the metaphor of a heart as deep and dark as a well. The phrase 'everything that's golden and green goes to hell' suggests that even the most beautiful and vibrant aspects of life are not immune to decay and corruption. This line captures the essence of the song, reflecting a sense of inevitable loss and the futility of clinging to material or emotional attachments.

The song also touches on themes of resilience and acceptance. The narrator speaks of being born to the wind and riding the hot southern breeze, indicating a sense of freedom and adaptability. However, the presence of snakes in the reeds and fire on their feet suggests that danger and hardship are ever-present. The call to 'fear no evil' amidst these challenges speaks to a stoic acceptance of life's trials. The closing lines, with the narrator's wings on fire, evoke a sense of transformation and the burning away of the old self, perhaps hinting at a rebirth or a new beginning despite the pervasive sense of decay.