Song meaning of 15 Step (Live at 93 Feet East) by Radiohead (Bootleg)

"15 Step" by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective track that delves into themes of repetition, self-reflection, and the cyclical nature of life. The lyrics, delivered with Thom Yorke's signature emotive vocals, paint a picture of someone grappling with the frustration of feeling stuck in a loop, unable to break free from their past mistakes.

The chorus, "How come I end up where I started? How come I end up where I went wrong?" reflects a sense of bewilderment and resignation at finding oneself back at square one despite efforts to move forward. The repetition of the lines emphasizes the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of repeating the same patterns and making the same mistakes.

The imagery in the verses further reinforces this theme of stagnation and introspection. Lines like "You used to be alright, what happened?" and "Fifteen steps, then a sheer drop" suggest a sense of loss and a sudden realization of the consequences of one's actions. The reference to a "sheer drop" hints at the precarious nature of life and the potential for sudden, drastic changes.

Overall, "15 Step" captures the frustration and introspection that come with feeling trapped in a cycle of repetition and self-doubt. The raw emotion in Yorke's vocals combined with the thought-provoking lyrics make this song a powerful exploration of the human experience and the struggle to break free from the past.