In Emma Pollock's song "In The Company Of The Damned," the lyrics depict a narrative about someone who believed they were invited and accepted into a particular group, led by a powerful individual. This person thought their inclusion in the group would bring them recognition and influence, but instead, they are deceived and treated with slight contempt. The lyrics describe this person realizing that the leader, along with their cousin and confidante, will never truly allow them to succeed or win. The reference to "this skin you’re in" implies that the person feels vulnerable and exposed in their current position. The song also criticizes the superficiality and manipulative nature of those surrounding the leader, calling them "Sycophants & Sidekicks" who are always trying to come up with new tricks to succeed at the expense of others. As the person waits for their turn to gain power and command, the lyrics question whether they really want to stay in the company of the "damned" - those who are willing to do anything to maintain their status. The line "Torment with true ambition, even eating is a competition" suggests the cutthroat nature of the company they are a part of. The narrator, who is observing the situation, admits that they would understand more if they were also manipulative and waiting to trip up the leader. However, they express that they do not desire chaos or calamity and can only watch and wonder what will happen when there's nobody left to spare. Overall, the song seems to be a commentary on the corrupting and destructive nature of power, the negative aspects of human ambition, and the loneliness and isolation that can come with being part of a toxic environment.
