Song meaning of Five Knuckle Shuffle by Throbbing Gristle

The lyrics of the song "Five Knuckle Shuffle" by Throbbing Gristle convey a sense of frustration, exhaustion, and a desire for escape. The repetition of "fed up" throughout the lyrics represents a feeling of being overwhelmed and reaching a breaking point. The use of phrases like "you're gonna get set up," "go bed up," and "go sped up" suggests a chaotic and exhausting lifestyle, possibly fueled by drugs or other destructive behaviors.

Amidst this frustration, there is a plea for solitude and freedom from judgment. The protagonist wants to be left alone, not assessed or possessed by others. The line "I want that not to assess me not to possess me not to attack me" reflects a longing for peace and a release from constant scrutiny and interference.

The reference to amphetamine and the mention of a lobotomy imply a state of being trapped or controlled by substances or external forces. The lyrics also touch on the theme of addiction, with lines like "Amphetamine, am fucking amphetamine." This suggests a cycle of dependency and the struggle to break free from it.

Overall, the lyrics of "Five Knuckle Shuffle" can be interpreted as a cry for escape and freedom from the pressures and self-destructive patterns that are causing frustration and exhaustion.