Meaning of "Tentative" by System Of A Down

"Tentative" has a clear anti-war sentiment and focuses on the consequences of military actions from the perspective of those on the receiving end. The song highlights the helplessness and lack of control that the victims of war experience. The opening lines describe superstition taking everyone for a ride and the signs of the Right (referring to political ideologies) overpowering the actions of mimes (symbolizing the silent sufferings of the affected). The bombs falling overhead with no sight represent the indiscriminate destruction caused by warfare.

The lyrics point out the hypocrisy of ceremonies and religions being ineffective in protecting people from the terrors of war. The "comforts" provided by religious beliefs are seen as masking the reality of the situation, leaving those who truly believe in them vulnerable. The contrast between those detached from the atrocities and the individuals walking amidst the destruction emphasizes the disconnect and lack of understanding.

The repeated question, "Where do you expect us to go when the bombs fall?" highlights the desperate plight of those affected, questioning the lack of consideration given to their safety and well-being. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness, with the belief that no one, not even God, will save them from the horrors of war.

[System of a Down, Tentative, war, destruction, helplessness, anti-war, perspective, victims, devastation, hypocrisy, religion, detachment, suffering, safety, hopelessness]