Six Feet Under

No Doubt's song 'Six Feet Under' delves into the existential musings of life, death, and the cyclical nature of existence. The lyrics reflect on the repetitive patterns of daily life, starting with the mundane routine of waking up and sleeping, which symbolizes the broader cycle of life. The repetition of 'repeat, repeat, repeat' emphasizes the monotony and inevitability of these cycles. The singer questions their existence before birth and ponders the mystery of what lies beyond death, highlighting a universal human curiosity about the unknown aspects of our existence.

The song also touches on themes of control and societal influence over natural processes. Lines like 'Subconsciously motivated natural instinct' and 'Social tradition interference' suggest a tension between natural instincts and societal expectations. The mention of 'Orthocycline' and 'Flirt with conception' points to the use of birth control and the deliberate manipulation of reproductive cycles, raising questions about the extent to which we control our own destinies versus being controlled by external factors.

The recurring mention of birthdays serves as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitability of death. The chorus, 'Today is my birthday / And I get one every year / And some day… / Hard to believe / But I'll be buried six feet underground,' juxtaposes the celebration of life with the certainty of death. This duality is further explored through the imagery of generational cycles, such as burying a grandmother and giving birth to a daughter, which underscores the continuous flow of life and death. Ultimately, 'Six Feet Under' is a contemplative piece that encourages listeners to reflect on their own existence, the passage of time, and the natural cycles that govern our lives.