Traverse
Ghostlimb Lyrics
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the three of them went hard as they could
into the desert before
fire rained down on their heads
what could they have done
to deserve this treatment
for every debt and deal we make under false pretense
it's an account receivable in someone else's blood
that the aim of power
is to retain power
in the process
those on ground level become the ochre mortar
bonding detritus
together
twenty four months later
eight thousand miles away
endless chances lost
what can be said
but forced apologies
Context:
Traverse
Whatever way an occupying force attempts to subvert its enemy will undoubtedly result in at least some level of collateral damage, surfacing in the form of accidental deaths, detainment and even friendly fire. This addresses those whose liberties are suspended and lives forever changed during times of deferred civil law.
The song "Traverse" by Ghostlimb is a thoughtful commentary on the consequences of war and the innocent lives lost as a result of military actions. The lyrics describe three friends who had no idea that their friend was dead, so they embarked on a journey into the desert before fire rained down on their heads. The question is posed: what could these people have done to deserve such treatment? This leads into the main theme of the song, which suggests that the aim of power is to retain power, and those on the ground level - innocent bystanders - become the ochre mortar, bonding detritus together. The ultimate result is forced apologies, portraying the sense of helplessness and despair that many feel in times of conflict.
The message of "Traverse" is thought-provoking and relevant, as it examines the human cost of military operations and the implications of seeking to maintain power at any cost. The lyrics create a powerful visual image of innocent individuals caught up in the middle of military operations, demonstrating the emotional and psychological impact of war. This is a poignant and thoughtful song that will resonate with anyone impacted by conflict or concerned with broader political issues.
Line by Line Meaning
Having no idea that their friend was dead
Unaware that their comrade had perished
the three of them went hard as they could
They pushed themselves to their limits
into the desert before
Venturing out into uncharted territory
fire rained down on their heads
A deadly attack was launched against them
what could they have done
What actions could they have taken
to deserve this treatment
To warrant such mistreatment
for every debt and deal we make under false pretense
Every transaction based on dishonesty has consequences
it's an account receivable in someone else's blood
It creates a debt paid for with another's life
we're all familiar
We are all aware
that the aim of power
The goal of those in control
is to retain power
Is to maintain their hold on power
in the process
In doing so
those on ground level become the ochre mortar
The common people are reduced to mere building material
bonding detritus
Connecting the unwanted, leftover particles
together
Into a coherent structure
twenty four months later
Two years had passed
eight thousand miles away
In a distant location
endless chances lost
Countless opportunities missed
what can be said
What could possibly be conveyed
but forced apologies
Other than being compelled to apologize
Contributed by Lucy P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.