KEYS TO THE KINGDOM
Autolux; Unkle Lyrics

In "Keys to the Kingdom" by Autolux, each verse explores the singer's fixation on self-destruction and the cyclical nature of their mental state. The first verse juxtaposes shooting "it low" with "kill[ing] the flow," indicating that the singer is deliberately sabotaging their own creativity and productivity. They further describe "ruin[ing] myself out on the north shore," a physical manifestation of their inner turmoil. However, the singer finds some solace in "watch[ing] the sun/Sink behind the trees with the keys to the kingdom." Here, they suggest that with the passing of time (symbolized by the sunset), they can gain access to some sort of greater truth or understanding (the keys to the kingdom).

The second verse follows a similar pattern, with the singer shooting "it high" and burying themselves "under a blue sky." They mention a "scheme" that they make "clean," which could refer to any number of plans or strategies they have for managing their mental health. Again, they describe themselves as drowning, this time in "blue rivers under a muffled scream." This could represent a sense of overwhelming emotion that they are struggling to express or cope with.

The chorus finds the singer "call[ing] your number wishing I could make amends," suggesting that they have perhaps hurt someone close to them as a result of their self-destructive tendencies. They describe being "caught in a space between my head and my face again," indicating a sense of disconnection or dissociation from their own thoughts and emotions. The final verse returns to the theme of self-sabotage, with the singer "ruin[ing] myself out on the northbound" and "bury[ing] my disease with the keys to the kingdom." The latter phrase suggests that they may be seeking some sort of escape or cure, but are using unhealthy means to achieve it.

Overall, "Keys to the Kingdom" is a bleak exploration of one person's struggle with mental health and self-destructive tendencies. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, using imagery of nature and physical location to underscore the singer's emotional state.