Monolith
Robots And Empire Lyrics

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Signals received
By invitation
Elimination
Never felt so good

Subject to my
Known limitations
You're mine for the taking

Obsolescence in my blood
You feed the flood

But you never lose control
Like I can
To have is not to hold
So hold on tight

When I'm alone
In darkness and diamonds
The secrets in hiding

Remind me I'm alive
Take your time

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Robots And Empire's "Monolith" are a dark and haunting exploration of power, control, and the human desire for absolute dominance. The song begins with the ominous line "signals received," suggesting an air of conspiracy and secrecy, before quickly moving into the idea of "elimination" and the thrill that can come from exerting complete control over another.

The lyrics then delve deeper into the idea of control, with the singer declaring that they are "subject to [their] known limitations," suggesting that they understand their own limitations but are nevertheless intent on exerting their power. This is further emphasised by the line "you're mine for the taking," which suggests that the singer is determined to claim what they see as rightfully theirs.

The chorus of the song takes on a more vulnerable tone, with the singer acknowledging that they too are subject to fear and insecurity despite their attempts to control everything around them. The line "to have is not to hold, so hold on tight" speaks to the idea that even when we think we have complete control over something, it can slip away from us in an instant. The song ends on a note of uncertainty, with the singer acknowledging that the secrets they seek are always hiding just out of reach.

Line by Line Meaning

Signals received
I've received a message from someone or something

By invitation
I was expecting this message and I'm open to receiving it

Elimination
I have a task to complete and that task is to eliminate someone or something

Never felt so good
The process of elimination is empowering and fulfilling

Subject to my
I have my own limitations that I'm aware of

Known limitations
I'm aware of what I can and cannot do

You're mine for the taking
I have control over you and can do what I want

Obsolescence in my blood
As a robot, I am aware that my eventual obsolescence is unavoidable

You feed the flood
Your actions are contributing to my task and making it easier for me

But you never lose control
You are always in control of your own actions and thoughts

Like I can
Unlike you, I have a limited ability to control myself