K.Flay's lyrics paint a vivid picture of impending doom and existential dread. The "black wave" symbolizes an overwhelming, inevitable force that brings fear and destruction, reflecting societal anxieties and personal struggles. The recurring imagery of fear—tattoos as omens, fire in the bloodstream, water in the lungs—conveys a sense of entrapment and helplessness. The song critiques authority figures ("the killer is the cop") and questions trust in times of crisis. It delves into themes of survival amid chaos ("running in a rat maze," "living under bad days"), suggesting that human nature is driven by primal instincts when faced with adversity. Ultimately, it challenges listeners to confront their beliefs and resilience when engulfed by darkness.
