The meaning of Before I Forget by Slipknot

"Before I Forget" is a Grammy-award winning song by American heavy metal band, Slipknot. Released in 2004, it is one of the tracks in their third studio album, "Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)." The song uniquely symbolizes and embodies the raw emotion, themes of identity, recollection, and self-worth which the band explores.

At its core, "Before I Forget" is a profoundly self-reflective song. It carries a discernible theme of self-examination and the struggle for identity. The lyrics implore the listener to "staple shut" their own values, a metaphor for forcing oneself to adhere strictly to a set of ideas or beliefs. However, the song also speaks about the importance of maintaining one's own individuality in the process and staying true to one's self, as reflected in the line - “I am a world before I am a man. I was a creature before I could stand.”

Throughout the song, the band's vocalist, Corey Taylor, expresses the notion of coming to terms with one's own self. With lyrics such as "I am a world before I am a man, I was a creature before I could stand, I will remember before I forget," Taylor demonstrates a sense of acceptance and an understanding of his own identity. This is a poignant reminder to individuals to recall and hold onto their roots, thus the song highlights the organic and transitional process of coming into one's own.

In relation to the theme of self-acceptance, "Before I Forget" also delves into the concept of self-worth. In particular, the lyric "I am a worm and I'm no man" brings to light feelings of self-deprecation and seemingly low self-esteem. As the song develops, these negative sentiments transform to feelings of empowerment. This progression represents the band members' battles with self-worth and their journey towards a more affirming self-belief.

The song's references to the “flavor” of life disappearing could be seen as a nod to the struggle with feeling empty or unfulfilled, representing a disillusionment but eventually overcoming it, showing the complex layers of emotion within the song. It is a metaphorical idea that encourages listeners to make the most of life and remember to live it to its fullest, before it is forgotten.

Ultimately, "Before I Forget" is an anthem of acceptance, identity, and self-worth. It encourages listeners to accept their own flaws, embrace their identity, and acknowledge their self-worth. It is a raw, emotional rollercoaster ride that serves as a reminder of how music, in this case, heavy metal, can be used to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and inspire conversation.

Hence, "Before I Forget," with its self-reflective lyrics and passion-filled delivery, is not just a song. It's a journey of self-discovery and acceptance that resonates with its listeners, making it one of Slipknot's most revered and important works.

Each line in the song is a testament to Slipknot's writing prowess and their ability to use their music as a means for conveying deep and personal emotions. Therefore, whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering the band, "Before I Forget" is a song that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.