Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: garage
Song Meaning of “Rats” by Metz
“Rats” by Metz is a powerful and gritty song that speaks to our darker sides and the darker corners of society. The song is an exploration of the power of peer pressure and following the herd, as well as the lengths some will go to fit in and belong. At its core, the song is about how the need to be accepted and to belong can be crushing, and it can lead to unhealthy, destructive behavior.
The repeating lyrics, describing how “the rats follow each other in” and “just be like the rest,” make the point that our instinct to abide by the popular opinion can be strong, and the chorus of “I don’t wanna be just like the rest” shows the inner conflict and struggle of trying to maintain one’s own individuality.
The imagery of rats is powerful; rats are often seen as pests and symbols of filth and contagion, but they are also resilient and seem to find their way everywhere. In this context, the rats can be seen as a representation of the human need to belong and fit in, and how our natural desire to survive and succeed can cross over into destructive behavior if it’s not managed properly.
The song is a warning about the dangers of following the herd, and a reminder that we should all strive to remain true to ourselves and not succumb to peer pressure.