Machinery of Torment

The song 'Machinery of Torment' by Skullflower, a fictional band from the movie 'Metal Lords', is a visceral expression of rage and retribution against perceived injustices and betrayals. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who has been deeply wounded by their parents and society, feeling abandoned and unheard. The repeated references to 'mother' and 'father' suggest a troubled family dynamic, where the protagonist feels drained ('Exsanguinates my dreaming') and ignored ('deaf to children’s call').

The 'machinery of torment' metaphorically represents the mechanisms the protagonist has created to inflict pain upon those who have wronged them. This could be interpreted as a form of empowerment, taking control of the pain and turning it into a weapon against the oppressors. The 'gears of pain' and 'razor mainspring' symbolize the intricate and painful thoughts and plans that have been set in motion. The violent imagery ('pull the lever, punch press starts to maul') suggests a cathartic release of pent-up anger.

The song also touches on themes of social hierarchy and revenge. The 'prom king crown' being destroyed is a metaphor for dismantling the superficial and oppressive structures of popularity and power within society. The protagonist's creation is not just for personal vendetta but is aimed at everyone who upholds these structures ('I built it for every one of you'). The repetition of the phrase 'I built it for you all' emphasizes the universality of this rage and the desire to see the tormentors suffer as the protagonist has.