Song meaning of Broken Soldier by The Black Angels

The song "Broken Soldier" by The Black Angels explores the emotional and psychological toll of war. The lyrics depict the struggle of an individual who is caught in the midst of conflict and the desire for peace and safety. The opening lines express the longing to feel secure and at ease, epitomized in the act of closing one's eyes. 

The lyrics further delve into the confusion and moral ambiguity experienced in war. The protagonist is torn between their duty and the inherent human aversion to taking lives. The repetition of the line "It's hard to kill when you don't know whose side you're on" emphasizes the internal conflict faced by the soldier. The horrors of war are described vividly, reflecting the brutality and traumatic events witnessed.

The song also questions the lasting impact of war on an individual's psyche and sense of self. The repeated refrain of "Will you be the same when this is over?" suggests that once exposed to the chaos and violence of war, one can never truly revert to their former self. The experiences endured have a profound and irreversible effect.

In essence, "Broken Soldier" serves as a poignant commentary on the dehumanizing nature of war, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on individuals. It serves as a call for empathy and an acknowledgment of the long-lasting consequences of conflict.