Black Honey

Thrice's song 'Black Honey' delves into the human tendency to pursue desires and goals with relentless determination, even when the methods employed are self-destructive or futile. The recurring metaphor of swinging a hand through a swarm of bees to get honey represents the protagonist's stubbornness and persistence. Despite the pain and failure, the protagonist continues to repeat the same actions, hoping for a different outcome. This reflects a broader commentary on human behavior, where people often chase after their desires without considering the consequences or the inefficacy of their methods.

The lyrics also touch on themes of entitlement and frustration. Lines like 'Do you understand I deserve the best?' and 'I'll do what I want, I'll do what I please' highlight a sense of entitlement and a refusal to accept failure. The protagonist's actions, such as ripping through a hornet's nest or trying to pin a butterfly, symbolize a destructive approach to achieving goals. These actions not only fail to bring the desired results but also cause harm to the protagonist and those around them. The song suggests that this relentless pursuit, driven by a sense of entitlement, leads to a cycle of pain and disappointment.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist's actions begin to affect others, as seen in the lines 'And now they're stinging my friends and my family.' This shift highlights the broader impact of one's relentless and misguided pursuits. The protagonist's inability to understand why their actions lead to negative consequences underscores a lack of self-awareness and reflection. The song ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind persistence and the importance of reevaluating one's methods and desires.