Empires On Fire

Banners' song 'Empires On Fire' paints a vivid picture of societal collapse and the self-destructive tendencies of humanity. The lyrics use powerful imagery to describe a world in ruins, where once-great structures are reduced to rubble and chaos reigns supreme. The opening lines, 'Like a city overthrown / We're turning buildings into stone,' set the tone for a narrative of destruction and decay. This metaphorical city represents the broader concept of civilization, which is crumbling under its own weight and misdeeds.

The recurring refrain, 'Our empire is on fire,' serves as a stark reminder of the dire state of affairs. The song suggests that the downfall is a result of collective actions, such as spreading lies and ignoring the truth, as highlighted in the lines, 'Spread the lie and kill the truth / They're in the ashes of the proof.' This points to a society that has lost its moral compass, leading to inevitable consequences. The imagery of choking on fumes and watching flames rise higher further emphasizes the inescapable nature of this downfall.

As the song progresses, the lyrics shift to depict the natural consequences of these actions. The lines, 'Now we're falling through the ice / We made our bed and rolled the dice,' suggest that the collapse is not just metaphorical but also literal, with environmental degradation playing a significant role. The rising tides and difficulty in breathing symbolize the encroaching effects of climate change, making it clear that the 'empire' is not just a political entity but the entire planet. The repeated assertion, 'I said I know you know we feel it in our bones,' underscores a collective awareness of this impending doom, yet a sense of helplessness in averting it.