Back From Exile
Nickel Eye Lyrics

Let me tell you the story of a man
The singer introduces the story of a man in New Orleans who faced troubles.

In New Orleans where his troubles began
The man's troubles started in New Orleans, a city known for its hard times.

If you've ever lost a love, then you might understand
The singer suggests that if someone has lost a love, they might relate to this story.

But never count your chips, son, until the last hand
The singer advises listeners not to assume they've won until it's over.

When the fever struck I was left to my demise
The man faced a setback and was left to suffer.

For many years I was forced to walk the line
The man had to conform to certain expectations for a long time.

But I saw a vision of the Phoenix rise
The man saw a vision of rebirth and renewal.

Hello motherfuckers, 'cause I'm back from exile
The man greets those who may have doubted him because he has returned.

If the water is still you can expect an attack
The singer warns that danger can come from unexpected places.

The same hands you shook put the knife in your back
Those who appeared to be friends may have betrayed the man.

You know, vultures and wolves always travel in packs
The singer suggests that those who prey on others operate in groups.

And the cowards come running as they cover their tracks
Those who did wrong may try to hide their actions and avoid responsibility.

I'm more mad at myself I couldn't realize
The man is angry at himself for not seeing the danger before it was too late.

But I vowed to return and take back what once was mine
The man made a promise to reclaim what he had lost.

In the cold, cold morning with the sleep still in your eyes
The singer sets the scene for a dramatic moment of confrontation.

Hello motherfuckers, 'cause I'm back from exile
The man declares his return again.

If I would have known that if I should fall from grace
The man reflects on his own downfall.

You'd be the first to kick dirt into my face
The singer suggests that someone close to him would have turned on him in that situation.

Don't you remember how we got to this place
The man calls out someone who played a role in his troubles.

All I ever wanted was a meaningful embrace
The man expresses a desire for genuine connection.

I'd forgive you if I could and if the nightmares would subside
The man wants to forgive, but it's difficult due to lingering trauma.

But you judged before I was ever put on trial
The person he's addressing made assumptions about him without giving him a chance to defend himself.

And oh my good friend, I do apologize
Despite everything, the man still extends an olive branch.

Hello motherfuckers, 'cause I'm back from exile
The song ends on a triumphant note as the man celebrates his return once again.

I'm back from exile
Repeating the chorus emphasizes the importance of this declaration.

I'm back from exile
Repeating the chorus emphasizes the importance of this declaration.