Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: heavy-metal
Song Meaning of “Envy Words” by Rygel
Envy Words paints a gripping portrait of a world in which rivalry and jealously reign supreme. The protagonist recounts their heart-wrenching struggle to overcome envy in its many forms; from lusting after others’ accomplishments and possessions to yearning for attention and admiration. By expressing their frustration at being constantly reminded of what others have that they do not, the protagonist finally attains a newfound peace and contentment.
“I look around me and all I see is envy, all I hear are words of envy
So much wanting and so much need, it’s so hard to break free.”
The poet is surrounded by a glamourous world where those around them are filled with envy for the things that they themselves possess. Rather than bask in the glory of their advantages, the poet sees it as a “need” — an obligation to possess such things, which prevents them from truly embracing themselves. The chorus of the song emphasizes the fact that the poet is held back by outside forces, rather than their own decisions.
“Thankful for what I have, grateful that I’m living
No distractions, no detours, just a single straight line
Not looking back, at the emptiness that I’m leaving
Not waiting on the world, ’cause I’m standing in time.”
Rather than indulge in envy or expectations of his peers, the protagonist has managed to break away from those feelings and live a life of contentment and gratitude. The focus is shifted away from longing for the possessions and accomplishments of others, and towards optimism and fortitude. By refusing to compare himself to the competition, the protagonist is free to focus on developing his own sense of purpose and destiny.
“Cause envy’s a trap, and it’s a startless end
You can’t break free, until you try
A ‘look what I’ve got’ mentality, can be the death of me
Envy words… tell the truth while it lies.”
The chorus serves as both a warning and a reminder to stay true to yourself and to be mindful of the judgements others may cast on you. Envy can be a crippling and self-destructive emotion, and allowing external sources to control the narrative of your life can lead to unhappiness and discontentment. The song ultimately serves as a call to arms: to find freedom from the envy clouding our lives and to embrace the truth instead.