The Emotionally Charged Lyrics of Mascara by Deftones

Introduction

Deftones, an American alternative metal band, is known for their unique sound that blends heavy metal, hardcore punk, and post-rock. Their music is recognized for its emotive, dream-like quality that captures the essence of rock music. “Mascara,” a track from their 2000 album White Pony, is a standout track that perfectly illustrates the band’s signature style. In this article, we will take a closer look at the meaning behind the Deftones song “Mascara” and analyze its lyrics to explore its deeper significance.

The Inspiration

“Mascara” was written by Deftones’ lead vocalist, Chino Moreno, who was going through a tough emotional time in his life when he wrote the song. In an interview with Kerrang!, Moreno revealed that he was dealing with a lot of personal turmoil, including the end of a romantic relationship.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Mascara” may seem cryptic and open to interpretation, but they are actually quite straightforward. The song is about heartbreak and the ways in which people try to hide their pain from the world. The first verse sets the stage for the rest of the song:

“I feel soon that I’m breathing. Back up, son. Just back up, son. Can’t you see I’m shaking? Legs won’t let me stand, no, no, no. You best believe that I’m a walking testimonial but I’m alive.”

These lyrics are incredibly powerful and evoke a sense of vulnerability in the listener. Moreno is expressing that he is struggling to cope with his pain and feels physically and emotionally weakened by his situation.

The Chorus

The chorus of “Mascara” is arguably the most memorable part of the song. It is a repeated refrain that captures the essence of the song’s message. The chorus goes like this:

“Hey vanity, this vile’s empty. So are you. Hey glamorous, this vile’s not God anymore.”

These lyrics refer to the idea that hiding one’s pain behind a facade of beauty or glamour is only temporary and ultimately futile. The use of the word “vile” in place of the more common “bottle” or “container” is an intentional choice, as it signifies the ugly nature of addiction and the desperate need to hide one’s pain.

Verse Two

The second verse of “Mascara” builds on the theme of addiction and the need for self-medication. Moreno sings:

“It was a trip on the sin side. I slid the backside. Fifty-five minute ride on neurotransmitters, yeah, yeah, yeah. I’m spilling my guts out wearing my insides out.”

Moreno is describing a drug-induced state of mind that takes him away from his pain for a brief moment. The metaphor of “spilling his guts out wearing his insides out” is a powerful image that captures the feeling of being emotionally exposed and vulnerable.

The Bridge

The bridge of “Mascara” brings the song together and leaves the listener with a sense of hope. Moreno sings:

“Leave your shoes at the door, baby. Leave your shoes and troubles behind.”

These simple lyrics represent a call to action to leave past burdens behind and move forward. It is almost as if Moreno is addressing himself, telling himself to forget about his pain and look toward the future.

The Finale

The final lines of “Mascara” bring the song to a close and leave a lasting impact on the listener. Moreno sings:

“Hey thanks. Thanks for listening.”

These lines are simple but incredibly meaningful. They represent a sense of gratefulness and vulnerability that is present throughout the entire song.

Conclusion

“Mascara” is a powerful song that captures the essence of heartbreak and the ways in which people try to cope with their pain. The emotive lyrics and unique blend of sound make it a standout track in Deftones’ discography. By taking a closer look at the lyrics, we can see the deeper significance of the song and what it represents. It is a testament to the power of music and its ability to connect people through shared experiences of pain and vulnerability.