For the popular band, featuring Tool vocalist Maynard James Keenan, see: A Perfect Circle.
Crimes
Perfect Circle Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Four, five, six
Seven, eight, nine
Nine, nine, nine
Ten, ten, ten, ten
The repetition of numbers in Perfect Circle's "Crimes" seems to be a metaphor for the cyclical nature of life and how we often repeat the same mistakes over and over. The counting also represents a sense of order and control, as if the singer is trying to make sense of the chaotic world around them. However, the repetition of "nine, nine, nine" suggests a breakdown in that system, potentially alluding to the idea of being stuck in a loop or feeling trapped.
The lyrics also carry a sense of urgency and foreboding, as if the counting is leading up to some kind of inevitable event or reckoning. The line "crimes give birth to their kind" suggests that our actions have consequences, and that the "crimes" of the past will inevitably catch up with us in the future.
Overall, "Crimes" is a haunting and enigmatic song that touches on themes of repetition, control, and the cyclical nature of life.
Line by Line Meaning
One, two, three
Counting the numbers to show progression or moving forward in time.
Four, five, six
Continuing the progression or movement forward in time.
Seven, eight, nine
The increasing anticipation of reaching the goal or end result.
Nine, nine, nine
Repeating the number nine multiple times gives the feeling of being stuck or trapped, unable to move forward or reach the end result.
Ten, ten, ten, ten
The repeated use of the number ten represents perfection, reaching the end goal or result desired.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: BILLY HOWERDEL, JEORDIE WHITE, MAYNARD JAMES KEENAN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind