☝️ Key Points
- The song is an allegory for drug abuse and the control drugs can have over a person's life.
- The destructive nature of drugs is portrayed through the description of drugs as a 'source of self-destruction'.
- The drug is depicted as the 'master of puppets' that has control over the user's mind and dreams.
- There are direct references to drug injection and everyday use of cocaine.
- The song ends with a statement about the end of life, showcasing the destructive power of drug abuse.
Interpretation
The lyrics of 'Master of Puppets' by
Metallica are an allegory for drug abuse and the control drugs can exert over a person's life.
In the first verse, 'End of passion play, crumbling away / I'm your source of self-destruction', the destructive nature of drug abuse is described, portraying drugs as a 'source of self-destruction'.
In the chorus, 'Master / Master of Puppets I'm pulling your strings / Twisting your mind and smashing your dreams', the control drugs have over a person is depicted. The drug is the 'Master of Puppets', having control over the user's mind and dreams.
The verse 'Needlework the way, never you betray / Life of death becoming clearer' refers to the injection of drugs and how it brings death closer.
The line 'Chop your breakfast on a mirror' is a direct reference to crushing cocaine on a mirror, indicating daily use of the drug.
The song ends with 'Now your life is out of season', indicating that the addict's life is over, another sign of the destructive power of drug abuse.
Overall, 'Master of Puppets' is a strong critique of drug abuse and the devastating effects it can have on a person's life.