Prey

Parkway Drive's song 'Prey' delves deep into the dark recesses of the human psyche and the societal pressures that exacerbate our inner turmoil. The repeated phrase 'I got an axe to grind, a crooked mind' suggests a personal vendetta or unresolved anger, hinting at a mind twisted by negative experiences or thoughts. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative of internal conflict and external aggression, where the protagonist warns others to be wary of his unpredictable nature.

The chorus, 'Prey, we are all prey for the sorrow,' universalizes this struggle, suggesting that everyone is vulnerable to the same feelings of despair and hopelessness. The use of the word 'prey' implies a sense of helplessness and victimization, as if we are all being hunted by our own sorrows. This metaphor extends to the societal level, where the 'new gods' are described as empty, and we are depicted as dancing upon the altar of envy and hubris. This critique of modern society highlights the emptiness and superficiality that often accompany the pursuit of validation and success.

The song also touches on themes of self-medication and the destructive nature of seeking validation through unhealthy means. Lines like 'Sick validation, gut full of pills, self-medication, it’s making me ill' paint a vivid picture of the lengths to which people go to numb their pain, only to find themselves deeper in despair. The final lines, 'If this is your salvation, you better pray,' serve as a stark warning that the paths we often take to escape our sorrows may lead us further into darkness rather than providing true relief.