Meaning of 'Holier Than Thou'

by Metallica

Interpretation

'Holier Than Thou' by Metallica is a song that deals with self-righteousness and hypocrisy. The lyrics criticize people who think they are better than others and feel entitled to judge them.

The song starts with the lines 'No more! The crap rolls out your mouth again / Haven't changed, your brain is still gelatin'. Here, the repetition of lies and the fact that the person hasn't changed are criticized. It is also pointed out that the person should not talk about others, but rather take care of themselves.

Furthermore, those who spread rumors and judge others instead of reflecting on themselves are criticized. The lyrics say: 'Gossip is burning on the tip of your tongue / You lie so much you believe yourself / Judge not lest ye be judged yourself'. These lines show that those who lie and judge others could ultimately be judged themselves.

The chorus 'Holier than thou / You are' is repeated and emphasizes the self-righteousness of the person. It is noted that they don't really know who they are themselves and instead rely on the judgment of others.

The lyrics also question whether the person has nothing better to do than to judge others. It is emphasized that arrogance and ignorance go hand in hand and that it is more important to reflect on oneself rather than pointing fingers at others.

The song ends with the repeated statement 'You know not', which suggests that the person actually doesn't know what they are doing and how they are portraying themselves.

Overall, 'Holier Than Thou' conveys the message that it is important to reflect on oneself rather than judging others, and that self-righteousness and hypocrisy are not good qualities. It is a call for self-reflection and to avoid prejudice towards others.