Ah, the wonders of regional pronunciation and meanings.
The word "route" is said "root" in Oz and "route" as you said it means utter defeat in battle or to cut a groove in wood.
Due to this difference my tired old brain shot wandered into permutations and I had to come back to the song again.
Perplexing imagery in some parts but that's excellent - something to gnaw and wonder at.
VERY enjoyable.


Cheers
rayc
"What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe