☝️ Key Points
- The song tells of violence and redemption
- The singer feels guilty for his violent act
- He seeks peace and forgiveness in religion
- The rust on the window grille symbolizes the corrosion of the soul
- The singer accepts the reality of the world and is willing to use violence for self-defense
Interpretation
The song lyrics 'Against Pollution' by
The Mountain Goats tell a story of violence and redemption. The singer describes how he works in a liquor store and is suddenly threatened by a man with a shotgun. To protect himself, he shoots the man in the face. This act of violence changes his life and he feels guilty.
Later, the singer goes to a Catholic church and prays the rosary. He tries to find peace and ask for forgiveness for his actions. He longs for redemption and hopes that 'when the last days come' he will see visions that are more beautiful and intense than sunsets and stars.
The lyrics also include a line about a window grille that rusts over time, even though it never rains here. This can symbolize the corrosion of the soul that arises from violence and guilt.
At the end of the song, the singer reaffirms his willingness to use violence to protect himself. He says he would do it again. This shows that while he seeks redemption, he also accepts the reality of the world and is willing to defend himself.
Overall, the lyrics of 'Against Pollution' express the ambivalence of human nature - the darkness and violence, but also the desire for redemption and forgiveness. The lines about visions and recognizing the true nature of people convey a hope for transformation and spiritual growth.