Seether gained mainstream popularity in 2002 with their US Active Rock number one single "Fine Again", and their success was sustained in 2004 with the single "Broken", which peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. They have experienced continued success with number one hits on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, such as "Remedy", "Fake It", "Country Song", "Words as Weapons", and "Let You Down". The band currently consists of lead vocalist/guitarist Shaun Morgan, bassist Dale Stewart, drummer John Humphrey and guitarist Corey Lowery (exStuck Mojo, Stereomud}. Seether has undergone several lineup changes since their formation in 1999, with vocalist/guitarist Shaun Morgan being the only constant member.
Effigy
Seether Lyrics
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Can you take it, can you take it
Pray if you want but you can't get a piece of me
Can you save this, can you save this
Don't keep saying I'm afraid of a new day
Don't you hate that, really hate that
So stay if you want but we'll burn you an effigy
So separate us, separate us
‘Cause I've been waiting for something beautiful
Can you serve it up for me
But I've been thinking that something wrong with me
Clear it up for me
And I've been hoping for something meaningful
Can you serve it up for me
Yeah I've been looking for something to keep coming back for more
Say what you want but you’re not getting through to me
Can you take it, can you take it
Pray if you want but can't get a piece of me
Can you save this, can you save this
Don't keep saying I'm afraid of a new day
Don't you hate that, really hate that
So stay if you want but we'll burn you an effigy
Separate us, separate us
'Cause I've been waiting for something beautiful
Can you serve it up for me
But I've been thinking that something wrong with me
Clear it up for me
And I've been hoping for something meaningful
Can you serve it up for me
Yeah I've been looking for something to keep coming back for more
Say what you want but you’re not getting through to me
Can you take it, can you take it
Pray if you want but can't get a piece of me
Can you save this, can you save this
Don't keep saying I'm afraid of a new day
Don't you hate that, really hate that
So stay if you want but we'll burn you an effigy
Separate us, separate us
Say what you want but you’re not getting through to me
Can you take it, can you take it
Pray if you want but can't get a piece of me
Keep me coming back for more
These lyrics are from the chorus of Seether's song "Effigy", released in 2007 as part of their album "Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces". The lyrics convey a sense of defiance and resilience in the face of criticism or attempts to control the singer's life. The opening lines suggest that the singer is impervious to the opinions or demands of others, and that attempting to sway or threaten them will be futile. The repeated refrain of "Can you take it, can you save this" could be interpreted as an ironic challenge to those who think they hold power over the singer - implying that they themselves are the ones who need saving.
The imagery of burning an effigy is particularly powerful, suggesting a desire to destroy the symbol of someone or something that has caused pain or frustration. The act of burning something in effigy is often used as a form of protest or symbolic revenge, showing a desire to rid oneself of negative influences or emotions. However, the song doesn't simply express anger or frustration; there is also a sense of yearning for something more meaningful or beautiful. The lines "I've been hoping for something meaningful/Can you serve it up for me" suggest that the singer is searching for deeper connections or experiences in life, but may feel like they are unable to find them. The repetition of the phrase "Keep me coming back for more" at the end of the chorus could be interpreted as a plea for someone or something to give the singer a reason to keep moving forward, to keep striving for something better.
Overall, the lyrics of "Effigy" strike a balance between defiance and vulnerability, expressing a desire for strength and independence while acknowledging the need for connection and purpose in life. The song's message is likely to resonate with anyone who has felt stuck or frustrated in their lives, and who is looking for a way to break free from negative influences or patterns.
Line by Line Meaning
Say what you want but you’re not getting through to me
I'm not affected by what you're saying.
Can you take it, can you take it
Can you handle what I'm saying back to you?
Pray if you want but you can't get a piece of me
Your prayers won't have any effect on me.
Can you save this, can you save this
Can you fix this situation?
Don't keep saying I'm afraid of a new day
Stop assuming I'm afraid of change.
Don't you hate that, really hate that
Isn't it frustrating when people make assumptions about you?
So stay if you want but we'll burn you an effigy
You're not welcome here and we'll mock you if you stay.
‘Cause I've been waiting for something beautiful
I'm hopeful that something positive will happen soon.
Can you serve it up for me
Can you make that positive thing happen for me?
But I've been thinking that something's wrong with me
I'm concerned that there's something about me that's preventing good things from happening.
Clear it up for me
Please help me understand what's going on with me.
And I've been hoping for something meaningful
I want something that has real importance or value.
Yeah I've been looking for something to keep coming back for more
I want something that will make me want to come back for more.
Keep me coming back for more
I hope this thing I'm looking for will make me want to keep coming back for more.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC
Written by: DALE STEWART, JOHN HUMPHREY, SHAUN WELGEMOED, WILLIAM MCLAWHORN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind