Killing
Korn Lyrics

Birds are circling above
The birds flying above are a metaphor for something that is being watched and surveilled.

They're called back to a waiting glove, oh
The 'waiting glove' represents the oppressive force controlling and manipulating whatever is being watched.

Why don't they fly away?
The question implies that the oppressed should be able to escape their oppressors if they truly wanted to.

Surely they'd have guessed by now
The oppressed should be able to recognize the controlling force in their lives.

There is no gun to shoot them down, and
The oppressors are not using physical force to control the oppressed.

Still, they stay for what they say
The oppressed remain in the same location and continue to do what they've always done, despite the lack of physical force.

Are they killing them with lies?
The oppressors may be using deception and propaganda to keep the oppressed under their control.

Are they fighting for their lives?
The oppressed may be struggling to survive and resist the oppressive force in their lives.

Killing them with thoughts?
The oppressors may be using psychological tactics to manipulate and control the oppressed.

Can they never get enough?
The oppressors may be insatiable in their desire for control and power over the oppressed.

Killing them, are we killing?
The singer questions whether they are part of the oppressive force causing harm to the oppressed.

Killing every single feeling?
The oppressive tactics may numb the emotions and sensations of the oppressed.

It's a trained response
The oppressed may have been conditioned to respond in a certain way through years of manipulation and control.

Sordid game, it bears my name
The singer acknowledges their role in the oppressive system and the guilt associated with it.

I have worshiped some false gods
The singer admits to having followed and idolized those involved in the oppressive system.

I've run to them like Pavlov's dogs to
The artist has been conditioned to depend on and obey those in power.

Hide my shame and fan the flame
The artist tries to mask their guilt and shame, while also perpetuating the oppressive system.

We're all preset
Society has already determined certain roles and expectations for individuals.

To reset to
Individuals are expected to fulfill certain roles and functions, even if it's harmful to themselves or others.

Die
The ultimate outcome and purpose of the oppressive system is death and destruction.

To die
Individuals are conditioned to accept and fulfill this deadly outcome.

Somebody told me once
The artist recalls advice or a statement given to them by someone else.

"Beat them till they start to get used to it"
The advice implies a brutal and oppressive tactic that will ultimately condition the oppressed to accept their fate.

Next thing, they're lining up
The tactic is successful in manipulating and controlling the oppressed.

Are we killing it?
The singer questions whether they are part of the oppressive system that is causing harm and destruction.

Are we killing?
The repetition emphasizes the severity and importance of the question.