"Let The Devil In" by Grieves is a song that delves into the artist's personal struggles with mental health, addiction, and the pressures of success. The lyrics represent Grieves' raw emotions and experiences, combining dark imagery with introspection. The song starts with Grieves reflecting on his accomplishments, mentioning 35 notches on his belt (symbolizing his experiences) and 5 records on the shelf (his music career). However, he also acknowledges the toll these achievements have taken on his mental and physical well-being, experiencing stress-related symptoms and feeling the weight of his success. Grieves then expresses a sense of nihilism and rebellion, pouring another bottle on his grave symbolizing his self-destructive tendencies. He reflects on the fleeting nature of fame and how people quickly forget about him once he steps off stage. The reference to the doctor's warning about the poison in his body being like a bullet to the face suggests the destructive nature of his lifestyle. As the song progresses, Grieves asserts his determination to continue despite the challenges he faces. He embraces the pain and uses it as a motivator, likening his struggles to a coat of arms tattooed on his body. He challenges those who doubt him, claiming that anyone who thinks he has gone soft is mistaken. He even references Leonard Cohen, a renowned artist known for his melancholic songs, implying that he feels a connection to his music. Grieves then describes the intense pressure and burden he carries. He talks about running out of energy with only nine bullets left in his metaphorical gun, which could symbolize his waning strength and resilience. The shadow on his shoulder represents the weight of his past mistakes. Despite facing personal demons and feeling the inevitability of time running out, Grieves remains defiant. He echoes the preacher's warning about needing to make a change, acknowledging that his path may lead him to hell. However, he also emphasizes that everyone carries their own sins and that his experiences have shaped him. The song concludes with Grieves embracing his madness and stress, comparing the feeling to walking over broken glass. He confronts the concept of forever and challenges it with an open hand, indicating his refusal to accept limitations. He likens his swollen glands to a flourishing plant, suggesting his ability to grow and overcome adversity. Grieves concludes by addressing those who doubt his capabilities, emphasizing that he blinds people with his talent and determination. He reiterates the combination of bad days, long nights, and strong medicine that have shaped his journey. By knocking on the listener's doorstep, he invites the devil inside, symbolizing his willingness to confront and conquer his personal struggles. In summary, "Let The Devil In" is a personal and introspective song by Grieves that explores his struggles with mental health, addiction, and the pressures of success. It delves into his defiance, determination, and his refusal to be defeated by his demons.
