The lyrics of Hatebreed's song "Idolized And Vilified" convey the theme of the destructive nature of addiction and the harmful influence of those who control and manipulate others. The song addresses the struggle and consequences of being consumed by all or nothing mentality, as well as the negative judgment and mistreatment faced by those who fall into addiction. The first verse talks about how the truth is often neglected and suppressed in the minds of those who are addicted, as they are high on their thrones of power and disregard the passing time. The lyrics question when nothing can hinder their downfall and when they will face the consequences of their actions. The chorus repeats the phrase "All or nothing, binge & purge, idolized & vilified" which represents the extreme behaviors and emotions associated with addiction. The juxtaposition of being idolized and vilified suggests that individuals can be both glorified and condemned for their addictive behaviors. The second verse describes the destructive power addiction holds over someone's body, soul, and mind, emphasizing the control it exerts over their life. The line "From the mountain of addiction, looking down at enemies" symbolizes the isolation and detachment experienced by those consumed by addiction, viewing others as adversaries. The bridge emphasizes the inevitability of the consequences that come from addiction, likening it to nails being hammered down and fate being sealed. The lyrics also convey the cyclical nature of addiction, as it always ends up causing pain and hurt. The song concludes with the repeated line "I'll take your dream and crush it," expressing a sense of resignation and hopelessness. The last two lines, "I'm done, fuck it, I'm fucking done," convey a feeling of exhaustion and surrender to the destructive influences of addiction. Overall, Hatebreed's "Idolized And Vilified" tells a story of the destructive nature of addiction and the control it exerts over one's life, as well as the judgment and mistreatment faced by those who suffer from it.
