Meaning of "Dear Dictator" by Saint Motel

The lyrics of "Dear Dictator" paint a vivid picture of living under the reign of a tyrant. The song captures the helplessness and fear that arises when faced with the power of a leader who controls every aspect of life. The line "It's not 'cause what you do or what you say, It's just time to get leaving now" suggests that people are not leaving because of a particular incident or statement, but simply because they have reached their breaking point. The mention of the dictator's unseen face further emphasizes the sense of mystery and fear surrounding their persona. The lyrics then delve into the dictator's sadistic nature, implying that they derive pleasure from inflicting harm on others. The line "I heard he'll drink your blood just for the taste, then laugh, and spit it out" paints a gruesome image, highlighting the cruelty of the dictator's actions.

The song explores the moral dilemma faced by the protagonist and others living under the dictator's rule. They acknowledge that opinions differ on the extent of evil one person can embody, as symbolized by the line "Everybody tends to disagree, on just how evil, A single human being should ever be, and all your bones they scream for more." This line suggests that deep down, everyone longs for justice and an end to the dictator's reign, but they may differ on how far they're willing to go to achieve it.

The lyrics also bring attention to the lack of justice in the dictator's regime. The lines "And at the trial, they'll be no jury, and all the dead are going to play witness" showcases the absence of a fair legal system and the disregard for human life. The use of the dead as witnesses further highlights the oppressive and tyrannical nature of the regime. The song suggests that while it may not be too late for the dictator to apologize, their apology would lack sincerity and meaning.

Ultimately, the lyrics depict a sense of collective liberation as the people finally decide to run away from the dictator's oppressive rule. The protagonist recognizes that they are not the cause of this exodus, but simply a part of it. The repetition of the line "time to get leaving" emphasizes the urgency and inevitability of the escape. The song implies a desire for freedom and the hope that by leaving, the individuals can break free from the grip of the dictator's power.