Meaning of "Freedom" by Rage Against The Machine

The lyrics of "Freedom" by Rage Against The Machine convey a strong sense of resistance and rebellion against societal injustices and oppression. The artist uses vivid imagery and metaphors to depict the power of art and poetry in representing this rebellion. The line "With poetry, I paint the pictures that hit / More like the murals that fit" suggests that their words have a visual impact and can present a powerful narrative that resonates with the listener.

The reference to a "deck of cards" symbolizes the way in which society is arranged and manipulated by those in power. The idea that they'll use "a pair of clubs to beat the spades" represents the unequal treatment and discrimination against certain groups. The artist urges the listener not to turn away from these realities but to confront them head-on.

The repetition of the lines "Brotha, did ya forget ya name? / Did ya lose it on the wall playin' tic-tac-toe?" emphasizes the loss of identity and individuality that occurs when people surrender to societal norms and systems of control. The reference to the diagonal and the question of "Doesn't that make it three in a row?" suggests a pattern of oppression and violence.

The line "Your anger is a gift" serves as a reminder that anger can be a powerful force for change and should not be suppressed or dismissed. It encourages individuals to channel their anger into action and resistance against the injustices they face.

The lyrics also touch upon the manipulation of the environment to distract and divert attention away from the larger issues at hand. The billboard's invitation to "come and play" and forget about the movement represents the way in which society is often distracted by trivialities and entertainment, preventing individuals from fully engaging in the fight for freedom and justice.

Ultimately, "Freedom" is a call to resist and challenge the systems of oppression and inequality that plague society. It urges individuals to reclaim their identities, harness their anger, and actively strive for change.