Boulder

"Boulder" by The Living Tombstone is a poignant exploration of the relentless struggles and pressures that individuals face in their daily lives. The song draws a powerful parallel to the myth of Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology condemned to push a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down each time he neared the top. This metaphor is used to illustrate the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of endless toil and frustration, where every effort seems futile and progress is perpetually out of reach.

The lyrics vividly describe the physical and emotional toll of these struggles, with imagery of aching backs, buckling knees, and breaking bones. This serves to emphasize the crushing weight of societal expectations and personal burdens that individuals carry. The song also touches on themes of poverty and the systemic barriers that prevent people from escaping their circumstances. The repeated notion of "pretending to be happy" highlights the societal pressure to maintain a facade of contentment, even when one is internally crumbling.

The song's tone is one of despair and resignation, yet it also carries an undercurrent of defiance. The acknowledgment of "broken hands holding up the dreams of broken hearts" suggests a resilience in the face of adversity, a determination to keep pushing forward despite the odds. The Living Tombstone's use of electronic and rock elements in their music adds an intense, almost frenetic energy to the song, mirroring the chaotic and overwhelming nature of the struggles described in the lyrics. Ultimately, "Boulder" is a powerful commentary on the human condition, capturing the essence of perseverance amidst seemingly insurmountable challenges.