Bulls

The Cat Empire's song 'Bulls' delves into the complexities of inner turmoil and the quest for self-identity. The recurring imagery of a bull inside the narrator's head symbolizes an uncontrollable force or emotion that dominates their thoughts. The red flag they wave is a direct reference to the traditional bullfighting scene, where the matador uses a red cape to provoke the bull. This metaphor suggests that the narrator is constantly in a state of agitation or conflict, driven by powerful emotions or thoughts they cannot easily control.

The lyrics also explore themes of self-awareness and the struggle to understand one's true self. The lines 'Don't know myself / I'm better off hiding / In somebody else' reflect a deep sense of confusion and the desire to escape one's own identity. This is further emphasized by the narrator's admission that they cannot stop the 'hurricane' or 'flood,' indicating a sense of helplessness against overwhelming internal forces. The idea of waking up on 'the other side of dark' suggests a longing for transformation or enlightenment, but also a fear of what that change might reveal.

The song also touches on the concept of dreams and their impact on reality. The mention of a Bedouin and the bomb as a rhythm played like a hurricane introduces a surreal, almost mystical element to the narrative. This dream sequence blurs the lines between reality and imagination, leaving the narrator to question what is real. The repeated invocation of 'Lorca,' likely referring to the Spanish poet Federico García Lorca, adds a layer of literary depth, as Lorca's works often explored themes of existential angst and the human condition. Through these rich metaphors and cultural references, 'Bulls' paints a vivid picture of a person grappling with their inner demons and the elusive nature of self-identity.