Eat Your Young Lyrics – Hozier

[Verse 1]
In the first verse, Hozier sets the tone by expressing a visceral hunger and desire, metaphorically suggesting an eagerness to consume and dominate. The imagery of wrapping teeth around the world and smelling dinner cooking evokes a predatory instinct, highlighting the aggressive pursuit of resources and power. This verse introduces the theme of insatiable greed and the relentless quest for fulfillment at any cost.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus emphasizes the urgency and competitive nature of this quest. Hozier sings about racing to the table and the necessity of seizing opportunities quickly before they vanish. The lines suggest a cutthroat environment where hesitation leads to loss, and success is measured by what can be gained, often through dubious means. This section underscores the theme of ruthless ambition and the pragmatic approach to survival.

[Chorus]
The chorus delivers a scathing critique of societal practices, using the metaphor of "eating your young" to describe the exploitation of the vulnerable for personal gain. The imagery of pulling up the ladder during a flood, throwing enough rope for the legs to swing, and skinning children for war drums paints a grim picture of a world where survival is prioritized over morality. Hozier highlights the ease and efficiency of exploitation, criticizing the societal systems that perpetuate such behavior.

[Verse 2]
In the second verse, Hozier continues to explore the theme of exploitation, describing a scene where even the finest things are subject to the harsh realities of survival. The mention of watching the dressing start to peel suggests the stripping away of facades and pretenses, revealing the true nature of societal dynamics. Despite the bleakness, there is a note of inclusivity, with crumbs enough for everyone, indicating that exploitation is a universal experience, affecting both the old and the young.

[Pre-Chorus]
The second pre-chorus reiterates the themes of celebration and taking advantage of opportunities. Hozier speaks of making sure the table is made, ready to celebrate the good done, though it implies a cynical view of what "good" means in this context. The emphasis remains on taking and breaking new ground, further highlighting the relentless pursuit of gain.

[Chorus]
The final chorus repeats the critique of societal exploitation, reinforcing the imagery of consuming the vulnerable to sustain oneself. The repetition of the lines about pulling up the ladder, throwing rope, and skinning children for war drums underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of these practices.