Meaning of "Savages" by Marina And The Diamonds

The lyrics of "Savages" delve into the dark aspects of human nature and suggest that savagery is a fundamental part of being human. The song highlights the prevalent themes of war, killing, lying, and stealing, juxtaposing them with the façade of civilization reflected in shirts, ties, and marriages. Marina emphasizes the line "I'm not afraid of God, I am afraid of man," expressing her belief that humanity's potential for violence and destruction is more terrifying than any divine force.

The song questions whether savage behavior is a product of genetics or learned behavior. Marina alludes to the idea of violence being an inherent trait deeply embedded in human DNA, asking if it runs through our blood, veins, genes, and DNA. At the same time, she acknowledges that humans have the capacity for both good and evil, highlighting the line "Yeah, we can be as bad as we can be good." This suggests that humans have the ability to choose their actions but often succumb to their savage instincts.

Marina also critiques society's obsession with violence and the media's role in perpetuating it. She mentions how violence is constantly showcased in the news, on television, and through the accessibility of information on phones. This exposure desensitizes individuals and contributes to a cycle of violence and destruction.

Additionally, the lyrics reflect on the role of privilege in shaping human behavior. Marina points out that a generation that has been given everything can still exhibit hate, indicating that even those with wealth and resources can succumb to savage tendencies. She questions whether violence is an innate human trait or a learned behavior, and whether individuals are killing for personal gain or under the guise of a higher purpose.

Overall, "Savages" serves as a critical examination of humanity's capacity for violence and its juxtaposition with societal norms. It challenges the idea that humans have evolved beyond their savage origins and instead argues that beneath the surface, we are still animals learning how to behave.