Meaning of "Student Demonstration Time" by The Beach Boys

The lyrics of "Student Demonstration Time" address the social and political unrest that characterized the 60s and 70s in America. The song reflects on various student demonstrations that turned into violent clashes with authorities, such as the riots at People's Park and Isla Vista. The mention of the violence at Kent State University, where four students were killed by the National Guard, serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic consequences of such conflicts. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration with the state of the country, the futility of war, and the racial tensions that fueled these protests. Overall, the song serves as a critique of the use of violence to silence dissent and calls for a more peaceful resolution to social and political issues.