“Change (In the House of Flies)” is a seminal song by the American alternative metal band Deftones, released as the first single from their critically acclaimed third album, White Pony, in May 2000. This track stands out as one of the band’s most commercially successful singles, reaching notable positions on various music charts, including number three on Billboard’s Alternative Songs chart.
The song is characterized by its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, which delve into themes of transformation, loss, and the complexities of relationships. Lead singer Chino Moreno has described the song as metaphorical, capturing a sense of guilt and the repercussions of change.
The lyrics convey a vivid narrative that explores the duality of feeling alive while simultaneously experiencing loss and vulnerability.
Table of Contents
“Change (In the House of Flies)” Lyrics Meaning
Verse 1
“I watched you change
Into a fly
I looked away
You were on fire”
This opening verse suggests a metamorphosis, where the subject undergoes a significant change, symbolized by becoming a “fly.” The act of looking away may imply denial or an unwillingness to confront the changes happening.
The phrase “you were on fire” could represent intense emotions or struggles that the subject is experiencing, possibly hinting at self-destruction or passion.
Chorus
“And I watched a change in you
It’s like you never had wings
Now you feel so alive
I’ve watched you change”
The chorus emphasizes the transformation observed in the subject. The line “it’s like you never had wings” suggests that despite the newfound vitality (“now you feel so alive”), there is a sense of loss or absence of freedom that comes with this change. The repetition of “I’ve watched you change” reinforces the speaker’s role as an observer, highlighting feelings of helplessness or resignation.
Verse 2
“I took you home
Set you on the glass
I pulled off your wings
Then I laughed”
In this verse, the imagery shifts to a more intimate and perhaps darker scenario. “Set you on the glass” could symbolize vulnerability or fragility, while “I pulled off your wings” suggests an act of violence or control, stripping away what makes the subject unique or free.
The laughter here may indicate a cruel enjoyment in this act, reflecting themes of power dynamics within relationships.
Chorus (Repetition)
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the themes introduced earlier, emphasizing both transformation and loss. It highlights how change can lead to feelings of aliveness but also carries with it an underlying sense of regret or sorrow for what has been lost.
Bridge
“It’s like you never had wings
Ah, ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah”
The bridge reiterates the idea that despite significant changes, there remains an emptiness or lack of freedom (“it’s like you never had wings”). The vocalizations add an emotional layer, conveying feelings that words alone cannot express.
Deeper Meaning Behind “Change (In the House of Flies)”
“Change (In the House of Flies)” by Deftones is a multifaceted song that explores themes of transformation, loss of identity, and the darker sides of human experience. Released in 2000 as part of their album White Pony, it has captivated listeners with its haunting lyrics and atmospheric sound.
The lyrics, primarily penned by frontman Chino Moreno, depict a protagonist observing a significant change in someone they once knew. This transformation is portrayed as unsettling and often negative, suggesting a loss of innocence or identity.
Key lines such as “I watched a change in you / It’s like you never had wings” reflect this idea, indicating that the person has undergone a metamorphosis that strips away their original self, leaving them nearly unrecognizable.
The metaphor of a fly is central to the song’s imagery. Flies are often associated with decay and transformation, which can symbolize how the person has succumbed to darker influences, possibly through addiction or other destructive behaviors.
This notion is reinforced by fans’ interpretations linking the song to experiences of witnessing friends spiral into substance abuse, where the narrator feels complicit in their downfall.
Chino Moreno has described the song as “a beautiful metamorphosis,” highlighting its dual nature—while change can signify growth, it can also lead to degradation.
The lyrics evoke feelings of guilt and regret, particularly in lines like “I pulled off your wings and I laughed,” which suggest a cruel detachment from the consequences of one’s actions. This resonates with listeners who have experienced similar feelings of helplessness when watching loved ones change for the worse.
Moreover, some interpretations draw parallels to the horror film The Fly, where a character undergoes a grotesque transformation that alienates him from those he loves. This connection emphasizes themes of helplessness and loss as relationships deteriorate due to uncontrollable changes.
Musically, “Change (In the House of Flies)” features a blend of dense guitar riffs and atmospheric elements that complement its lyrical themes. The contrast between Moreno’s whispery verses and powerful choruses adds emotional depth, enhancing the unsettling nature of the song. This synergy between lyrics and music creates an immersive experience that resonates deeply with listeners.
Music Video
The music video for Deftones’ “Change (In the House of Flies)” is a visually striking representation of the song’s themes of transformation and the darker aspects of human experience. Directed by Liz Friedlander, the video captures a chaotic party atmosphere that mirrors the song’s exploration of change and loss.
Set in an upscale Hollywood mansion, the video features the band performing amidst a backdrop of apathetic partygoers wearing animal masks. This surreal imagery enhances the sense of detachment and disconnection prevalent in the lyrics. The attendees appear to be caught in a hedonistic spiral, embodying a sense of joylessness that contrasts sharply with the vibrant energy typically associated with parties.
Chino Moreno, the band’s frontman, described the concept as depicting a never-ending party that has lasted for days, filled with indulgence and excess. This aligns with interpretations of the song as a commentary on the consequences of substance abuse and the loss of innocence.
The visuals serve to emphasize the emotional weight of the lyrics, illustrating how change can lead to a loss of identity and connection.
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He’s also an amateur guitarist, which means he knows music and melody very well. With this background, he’s a great lyricist you can rely on to learn writing lyrics.