Song meaning of Ancient Ways by Interpol

"Ancient Ways" by Interpol is a song that delves into themes of rebellion against tradition and societal norms, as well as the struggle to break free from the constraints of the past. The lyrics convey a sense of defiance and a desire for change, rejecting the old ways in favor of forging a new path forward.

The repeated refrain of "Ooh, fuck the ancient ways" sets the tone for the song, with the band expressing a clear disdain for outdated customs and beliefs. This sentiment is further emphasized in lines such as "They are heretofore, shown no claim" and "They are ringing doorbells, they ran it by waste," highlighting a sense of frustration with the past and a willingness to move beyond it.

The chorus, with lines like "The city feeds us all like babes" and "The city needs us and all our names," suggests a sense of dependency on the urban environment and the systems that govern it. However, there is also a recognition of the growing power dynamics at play, as seen in the lines "But beneath us an empire grows, every stage we align" and "To be beaten by the weight of it, they are to be beaten by the weight."

The song's outro poses a question, "Should we seek them for the sake of it? May we greet them right away," hinting at a sense of uncertainty and contemplation about the future and the choices that lie ahead. Overall, "Ancient Ways" by Interpol is a powerful anthem of defiance and a call to break free from the past in order to embrace new possibilities and opportunities for growth and change.