The song "And You Evade Him / Born In The Blood" by Joshua Burnside explores themes of deceit, fear, capitalism, and lost innocence. In the lyrics, Burnside admits to being a liar when he claimed not to be afraid. This suggests a lack of honesty and vulnerability. He then states that he was "born in the blood," implying that his existence and identity are deeply rooted in something dark and perhaps sinister. The mention of bricks, tiles, land, and sky symbolizes the physical world and the systems of ownership and control that dominate it. Burnside acknowledges that he is now bowing to the power of the almighty bank, emphasizing the influence of capitalism on his life. As he repeats the line "Born in the blood," Burnside signifies that his entire being is tainted by this oppressive reality. He further expresses how his dreams and thoughts, once believed to be his own, are now constantly bought and sold, trapping him in a cycle of consumerism and commodification. The lyrics also touch upon the loss of individuality and the suppression of dissent. The quieter voices are drowned out by the "white noise," representing the overwhelming influence of mainstream media and conformity. The line "they're old enough to hold a gun, the ones who don't remember" refers to those with power who are oblivious to the struggles of the past and the consequences of their actions. The repetition of the phrase "Born in the blood" serves as a reminder of the inescapable nature of these societal structures and the hardships they impose. Burnside emphasizes the slow, relentless dance of time, likening it to a heavy tide. This suggests that no matter how hard one tries to resist or evade, they are ultimately pulled back into the cycle of oppression. The reference to limestone and lime signifies the erosion and decay of society over time. It also alludes to the corrosive effects of these powerful forces on the individual and the collective. Overall, "And You Evade Him / Born In The Blood" portrays a struggle against a system that devalues authenticity, exploits innocence, and perpetuates inequality. It reflects on the relentless nature of societal control and the difficulty of breaking free from its grip.
