How Hozier Tackles Societal Exploitation in ‘Eat Your Young’
The song “Eat Your Young” by Hozier appears to be using metaphorical language to convey a message about exploitation, greed, and the destructive nature of certain societal and economic practices. The lyrics suggest a theme of taking advantage of others, especially the vulnerable, for personal gain. The track was first revealed on 24th February 2023 in a post on Hozier’s socials, together with artwork and tracklist of the EP. This was followed by the first snippet of the track with the words;
In the context of the lyrics you’ve provided, the song seems to criticize the pursuit of power and profit at the expense of the younger generation and those who are less fortunate. The act of “eating your young” metaphorically represents consuming and depleting the resources, opportunities, and potential of future generations for immediate benefits. According to the artist, the track is a taste of the 9 Circles of Hell more specifically the 3rd Circle, Gluttony. This is based on the first part of Dante Alighieri’s epic poem known as Divine Comedy.
Lines like “Pull up the ladder when the flood comes” and “Skinnin’ the children for a war drum” highlight the ruthless and selfish actions taken by those in positions of power to maintain their status and wealth, even if it means sacrificing the well-being of others. The mention of “selling bombs and guns” further underscores the idea of profiting from destructive actions.
“Eat Your Young” is part of Unreal Unearth, the third studio album by Irish musician Hozier, released on 18 August 2023. Caitlin Chatterton of The Line of Best Fit described the album saying “as well as uplifting Irish culture, the album is keen to demonstrate that Hozier is well versed in the classics” and concluded that “from the folk twang of ‘First Time’ to the torrential clapping on ‘Anything But’, this is a Hozier album to the hilt: considered, earnest, and moving”.
Watch: Hozier – “Eat Your Young”
Listen now: Hozier – “Eat Your Young”
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