"Ligature Marks" is a song by the artist Gost, and the lyrics explore themes of manipulation, control, and the dark side of human nature. The song portrays a sinister figure or group (referred to as "they") who use deceit and manipulation to prey on vulnerable individuals and exploit their weaknesses. The opening lines suggest that these individuals masquerade as religious or authoritative figures, pretending to serve a higher power but actually taking advantage of others. They "kneel on the false altar" and "eat from the lord's hand," symbolizing their deceptive actions. The chorus emphasizes how they always play the victim while causing harm. They perpetuate a cycle of destruction, always playing to kill. The phrase "when no one will" implies that their actions continue even when there is no one left to stop them. The lyrics also highlight the oppressive nature of these figures. They "gnaw" and "maul" the crowd, representing their power and influence. The crowd itself is a metaphor for society, suggesting that these manipulative individuals are not separate from us but rather a reflection of our own dark tendencies. The repeated lines about "our hands lying desperately open" and "our hands lying desperately still" convey a sense of helplessness or vulnerability. The victims may long for deliverance or justice, but they are trapped, unable to escape. The song also explores themes of desire, sin, and the destructive power of lust. The lyrics question whether these manipulators can truly hold the narrator within their grasp. The narrator expresses a desire to watch it all end, suggesting a longing for an end to the cycle of manipulation and pain. In the second half of the song, the lyrics suggest that fear and insecurity are pervasive, present in everyone. The manipulators feed off this fear, exciting and pushing it within others. They thrive on creating chaos and instilling doubt. Overall, "Ligature Marks" delves into the dark aspects of human behavior, focusing on manipulation, control, and the destructive consequences of unchecked desires. It serves as a cautionary tale and a commentary on the pervasiveness of these negative influences in society.
