"Signs" by Under The Flood explores themes of deception, manipulation, and the consequences of succumbing to societal pressures. The lyrics start by questioning someone's perception, asking if they are too blind to see the subtle lies surrounding them. The deceitful nature of the person is likened to a timid lie, weak from flight. They are portrayed as luring others in without their awareness, like a poisoned pair. The protagonist urges this person to latch onto their molded mind in fear. The next verse talks about being directed until falling into line, and being perfected until becoming someone else's design. This suggests the pressure to conform and fit societal expectations. The chilling night represents a dark and disturbing encounter, where the person is exposed and their fallen life becomes apparent. Absent eyes refer to their lack of awareness or realization of the harm they have caused. The betrayal they have composed is compared to building walls. The chorus repeats the journey of being directed and perfected, highlighting the protagonist's knowledge of the person's hunger for someone who will absolve them of their sorrows and shame. However, they also warn that this pursuit of external happiness can lead to painful misery. The bridge emphasizes the toxic nature of the person, using the metaphor of a leech. The protagonist acknowledges that the person has repeatedly lied and dragged others down, but they refuse to let them fall any further. Overall, "Signs" explores the consequences of surrendering to societal pressures, the dangers of deceit and manipulation, and the longing for genuine connection and self-acceptance.
