The song "Like Father, Like Son" by Exodus explores the tragic cycle of violence and abuse that is passed down from one generation to another. The lyrics describe a father who believes in strict discipline and uses physical punishment, such as a strap, to teach his son a lesson. The son grows up learning that men should not show emotions or cry, and experiences burns and bruises as a result of his father's discipline. The home in which the son is raised lacks love and is replaced with pain, creating a pattern of hurting that has been present for generations. The son, in turn, adopts his father's violent ways and expresses his feelings through physical aggression. The lyrics suggest that this destructive pattern will continue unless it is halted. The chorus, "Like father, like son, Another life has begun, The punishing ways that you choose, You were always born to lose," highlights the notion that the son's destiny seems predetermined, following in his father's footsteps of violence. The lyrics depict a desperate plea from the son, asking his father to stop the abuse, to break the circle of violence, and to spare him and his family from further pain. The song implies that the consequences of this cyclical violence are severe, potentially leading to a lifetime of suffering and even death. It addresses the father, urging him to recognize the impact of his actions and make a change before it is too late. The hope is that by acknowledging their sins and breaking the cycle, the torment will end both for the son and future generations. Overall, the song serves as a poignant critique of the damaging effects of violence and the importance of breaking the cycle of abuse. It calls for understanding, empathy, and a commitment to ending the generational pattern of pain.
