The song "Rubber Ball (Space Kitchen)" by Underworld contains cryptic and abstract lyrics that can be open to interpretation. The lyrics appear to touch on themes of resilience, individuality, and the struggles faced in the face of success. The opening lines, "I'm a rubber ball (Victims of success, We all are...)" suggest that the speaker sees themselves as resilient and able to bounce back from adversity. They mention being victims of success, possibly referring to the pressures and challenges that come with achieving success in any field. This line implies that success can sometimes become burdensome. The next verse talks about a blackbird sitting at the kitchen door and a reference to not giving it bread or it'll come back for more. This can be seen as a metaphor for people who constantly seek more and are never satisfied. The following line asks the listener to point to the bush where the berries grow, possibly indicating that the solution to satisfaction lies within oneself and not in external sources. The chorus, "We are strong, We're invincible, We are driven snow in the face of all, We are strong, We're invincible, We're a rubber ball," emphasizes resilience and strength in the face of challenges or criticism. The image of being "driven snow" represents purity and unwavering determination. The next verse mentions a blackbird shackled in a golden cage, symbolizing confinement or restriction. Mother Nature shaking with rage could refer to the negative consequences that arise from imposing such limitations on oneself or others. The line "He was born with his and I was born with mine, And there is still a dividing line" hints at the inherent differences among individuals and the unequal circumstances they face. The repetitive chanting of "We are strong, We're invincible" in the chorus reiterates the speaker's unwavering strength and determination. The line "And we're a rubber ball" can be seen as a defiant affirmation of their ability to bounce back and overcome obstacles. Overall, "Rubber Ball (Space Kitchen)" conveys messages of resilience, individuality, and the struggles faced in the pursuit of success. The abstract nature of the lyrics allows for various interpretations, and listeners may find personal significance in the song based on their own experiences.
