Meaning of "A Campaign Of Shock And Awe" by Evelyn Evelyn
The song "A Campaign of Shock and Awe" by Evelyn Evelyn explores the exploitation and objectification of individuals who are considered different or unusual by society. The lyrics depict the twins being put on display and marketed as a freakish attraction for profit. This mirrors historical instances of individuals with physical abnormalities being exhibited in "freak shows" for public entertainment.
The repetition of phrases like "shocked" and "awed" emphasizes the sensationalism and spectacle surrounding the twins. It highlights how society capitalizes on people's fascination with the strange and unusual, willing to pay to see something out of the ordinary. The reference to the twins as the "eighth wonder of the natural world" further reinforces their status as an extraordinary anomaly.
Despite the twins' talents and abilities, they are reduced to objects of curiosity and entertainment. The lyrics sarcastically highlight the supposed kindness of the audience and how they perceive the twins as something to admire. Lines like "Isn't it nice that they're being so nice to us?" and "Aren't we lucky to be here?" reveal the ironic tone and critique of the exploitative nature of the situation.
The song also hints at the power dynamics at play. The twins are seemingly well-behaved and not complaining, possibly suggesting that they have come to accept their role as objects of spectacle due to societal pressure or manipulation. The line "Just imagine the fun you could have with these chicklets" reinforces the objectification and objectifying language used to describe the twins.
The second part of the song shifts to focus on the commercialization and marketing of the twins' talent. It mentions the media outlets that have praised them and promotes their appearances and merchandise. This part further underscores the crass commercialization and profiting off their unique situation rather than appreciating their talents for what they are.
Overall, "A Campaign of Shock and Awe" raises questions about exploitation, the dehumanization of individuals who are different, and the ethics surrounding the commodification of human beings.