Our Self-Inflicted Catacombs
The lyrics from Deadlands’ song “More” off their awesome EP, SEVEN, offer a powerful reflection on the destructive nature of the deadly sin of gluttony and excess. The line “Corrode your soul for something selfishly indulged” leaped out at me as Kasey Karlsen sang about pursuing fleeting pleasures or material gains at the expense of one’s integrity, health, or well-being. It also speaks to how gluttony can be spiritually corrosive. Kasey and CJ remind us that chasing superficial rewards, highs , and satisfaction most often lead to inner decay.
The subsequent line, “With all this time you are biding; Your digging deeper into self-inflicted catacombs,” emphasizes how prolonging such gluttonous pursuits can trap us in a metaphorical tomb of our own making. I love the metaphor of catacombs used in the song – it is genius! It highlights the danger of wasting time on self-indulgence rather than focusing on more meaningful, lasting values.
The catacomb metaphor in the song is a powerful symbol for exploring themes of introspection, hidden truths, and the depths of our subconscious. Just as catacombs are underground chambers that house skeletons, secrets, and remnants of the past, they invite us to delve beneath the surface of everyday life and confront aspects of ourselves that are often buried or overlooked.
Just as navigating through a labyrinthine catacomb can be challenging, understanding ourselves often involves traversing complex emotional landscapes, learning patience and resilience along the way. The darkness and mystery of a catacomb symbolize the parts of our psyche that are not immediately visible. Exploring these can lead to greater self-awareness, healing, and growth. By contemplating the metaphor of the catacomb, we learn the value of looking inward with honesty and curiosity, embracing the unknown within us, and seeking lasting fulfillment beyond superficial layers.
From these lines, we can learn the importance of self-awareness and moderation. Deadlands is encouraging us to consider whether our pursuits truly serve our well-being or if they are leading us away from genuine fulfillment. Ultimately, the song urges us to prioritize what nourishes our soul and growth over superficial gratifications that might cause long-term harm.
Byron's Babbles 
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