For those redirected from the death/thrash metal band, see Distain.
Be Thou My Vision
Distain! Lyrics
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do you think you are cool
the ring around your finger
the haircut everyday
your cars are bumping
like the ladies - ah - ah
you are so uncool
who stole the soul
was it the crack inside your head
there is no love
and the alcohol you eat
pushing your children
what is it you teach - ah - ah
the other day they found you
in a cold Scottish lake
heaven or hell I found you
hip-hop on the floor
the other day they found you
in a cold Scottish lake
heaven or hell I found you
it’s cold I’m late
The song "Be Thou My Vision" by Distain! is a poignant reflection on the emptiness and shallowness of modern society. The lyrics speak to the superficiality of youth culture, critiquing the obsession with material possessions, drugs, sex and rock'n'roll. The opening lines criticize those who believe they are cool simply because they have a "ring around [their] finger" and maintain a fashionable haircut. The song suggests that these things cannot provide true happiness or fulfillment and, instead, are simply distractions from the deeper issues of life.
The chorus, "who stole the soul," is a powerful indictment of the way that young people are being sold a false bill of goods – one that promises happiness, but ultimately leaves them feeling empty and alone. The line "there is no love" interrupts the flow of the chorus and serves as a stark reminder of what is truly missing in a society that prioritizes superficiality over real connection.
The second half of the song takes a more somber tone, describing the death of someone who was consumed by this shallow culture. The repeated refrain, "the other day they found you in a cold Scottish lake, heaven or hell I found you," is a haunting reminder of the cost of living a life without substance. The final line, "it's cold, I'm late," suggests a deep sense of regret and sorrow at not having recognized the need for real connection sooner.
Overall, "Be Thou My Vision" is a powerful reflection on the emptiness of modern life and the need for deeper meaning and connection.
Line by Line Meaning
hey fellas what's up
Greetings, gentlemen. May I inquire as to your well-being?
do you think you are cool
Do you believe yourself to be fashionable or impressive?
the ring around your finger
The jewelry adorning your hand
the haircut everyday
The regularity in the maintenance of your hairstyle
your cars are bumping
The loud music emanating from your automobiles
like the ladies - ah - ah
In a manner similar to that of women's behavior
you are so uncool
You lack the qualities and characteristics that would make one trendy or fashionable
drugs, sex and rock’n’roll
Indulgence in substances, sexual activities, and music of the rock genre
who stole the soul
Who removed one's sense of empathy and compassion
was it the crack inside your head
Could addiction to drugs or other vices have caused this lack of humanity?
there is no love
A complete absence of love or compassion
and the alcohol you eat
The excessive consumption of alcohol as an addictive behavior
pushing your children
Pressuring or forcing offspring to conform to harmful behavior
what is it you teach - ah - ah
What are the values or lessons that you instill in others?
the other day they found you
Recently, someone discovered your presence
in a cold Scottish lake
You were located in a frigid body of water located in Scotland
heaven or hell I found you
I have located you in what could be perceived as a place of eternal reward or punishment
hip-hop on the floor
Rhythmic music popular in the rap genre that can be heard playing on the ground
it’s cold I’m late
The climate is chilly and I am overdue for a commitment or obligation
Contributed by Adeline L. Suggest a correction in the comments below.