"Hands and Knees" by Unloco is a song that conveys feelings of frustration, self-blame, and desperation. The lyrics revolve around the protagonist's internal struggle and the strained relationship with their parents. The song begins with the protagonist walking away, feeling sorry for their actions and failures. They address their parents, expressing remorse for not meeting their expectations and dealing with constant complaints. The parents' attempts to bring about change in the protagonist's life are described as not being aligned with who they truly are. The line "filthy hands lay upon my chest" suggests that the protagonist feels burdened or controlled by someone else's influence, possibly symbolizing a negative and manipulative force. The mention of "doing it for green" alludes to financial motives and potentially engaging in activities driven by material gain. The lyrics highlight the protagonist's dissatisfaction with the way they are perceived by others, particularly their parents. They feel misunderstood and unseen, as seen in the line "in your mind you are blind." The reference to someone turning their back implies that they were not there when the protagonist needed support the most. The chorus repeats the plea to the mother and father, emphasizing the protagonist's state of desperation and vulnerability on their hands and knees. They express that they are trying to salvage what is left of themselves, suggesting a feeling of being broken or reduced to a low point. The verse in Spanish reveals an additional layer of emotional distress, as the protagonist declares their unwillingness to live life in this manner. This part could represent their cultural background or perhaps a sense of isolation and disconnection from their roots. As the song progresses, the protagonist acknowledges their self-indulgence as a contributing factor to the shame experienced within their family. They express how they hate their own life and lyrically highlight the internal struggle they face. In conclusion, "Hands and Knees" by Unloco conveys the deep emotional turmoil and strained relationship between the protagonist and their parents. The lyrics express feelings of self-blame, desperation, and the desire to find a sense of identity and purpose amid internal and external conflicts.
