Twenty One Twenty Three
Arkangel Lyrics


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Wounds for wounds,
stripes for stripes,
burning for burning.

Twenty one
twenty three.

Carved into the mind of the oppressed.
Before the storm of revolution





Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Arkangel's song Twenty One Twenty Three are symbolic of the bitter cycle of violence, oppression, and retaliation that has plagued humanity for centuries. "Wounds for wounds, stripes for stripes, burning for burning" refers to the idea that violence and aggression only beget more of the same. It's a call for people to recognize this futility and look for alternative ways to create change. "Twenty one twenty three" likely refers to a specific year or event, but its meaning is left open to interpretation. It could signify a turning point in history, a moment of great upheaval, or a call to action.


The phrase "carved into the mind of the oppressed" speaks to the psychological impact of violence and oppression. When people are constantly subjected to violence and injustice, it can become engrained in their psyche and become a part of their identity. The "storm of revolution" that is mentioned at the end of the stanza implies that the only way to break this cycle is through collective action and a concerted effort to create real change.


Line by Line Meaning

Wounds for wounds,
Retaliation in the form of inflicting the same pain as punishment.


stripes for stripes,
The concept of 'an eye for an eye' in terms of physical punishment.


burning for burning.
Revenge by setting a similar fire as an act of punishment.


Twenty one
Refers to the year 2021, a significant period in the current era.


twenty three.
Refers to the year 2023, a future period in the current era.


Carved into the mind of the oppressed.
The idea of retaliation is ingrained in the mind of those who have been oppressed or wronged.


Before the storm of revolution
The retaliation may lead to a revolution or rebellion against the oppressors and their system.




Contributed by Brooklyn N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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