The lyrics of "Commando" by Ratos De Porão describe the indoctrination and training of soldiers for war, specifically referencing Vietnam and the Cold War era, with a mix of rules and guidelines to follow.

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Meaning of "Commando" by Ratos De Porão


The lyrics of "Commando" delve into the themes of war, indoctrination, and blind obedience. The repetition of "They do their best, they do what they can" highlights the systematic nature of preparing soldiers for battle, emphasizing their role in conflicts such as Vietnam and the ideological divide of the Cold War, as seen in the references to "old Hanoi" and "East Berlin." The rules presented in the lyrics, such as following the laws of Germany, being nice to mothers, and not talking to communists, suggest a sense of control and manipulation over individuals in military settings. The mention of eating kosher salamis possibly symbolizes conformity and adherence to societal norms. Overall, the song seems to critique the military machinery that trains individuals to follow orders without question, ultimately exploring the dehumanizing effects of war and the loss of individual agency.