You Are
-Bad Religion Lyrics
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Eradicate but vindicate as progress creeps along
Puritan work ethic maintains its subconscious edge
As Old Glory maintains you consciousness
There's a loser in the house and a puppet on a stool
And a crowded way of life and a black reflecting pool
And as the people bend the moral fabric dies
Then the country can't pretend to ignore its people's cries
Cause you are the government
You are jurisprudence
You are the volition
You are jurisdiction
And I make a difference too
In Bad Religion's song "You Are," the band delves into the notion of power dynamics in society, specifically in the context of the government and its citizens. The lyrics "Hey sit down and listen and they'll tell you when you're wrong" imply that those in authority hold the power to dictate what is right and wrong, and society is expected to follow suit. However, the following line, "Eradicate but vindicate as progress creeps along," suggests that progress is being made but at the cost of eradicating aspects of society that may still hold value.
The song highlights the hypocritical nature of society, where the "Puritan work ethic maintains its subconscious edge" and "Old Glory maintains your consciousness." Despite the progress and changes that have been made in society, the ideals of hard work and patriotism still hold strong, embedded in the minds of citizens. However, this victory is a double-edged sword, as it also blinds people to the injustices that exist.
The lyrics "Cause you are the government / You are jurisprudence / You are the volition / You are jurisdiction / And I make a difference too" are a direct call to action, urging individuals to recognize their own power and ability to make a difference. While the government and those in power hold a significant amount of control, the individual can still contribute to shaping society and creating change.
Overall, "You Are" is a thought-provoking song that encourages listeners to reflect on their role in society and the power dynamics that exist.
Line by Line Meaning
Hey sit down and listen and they'll tell you when you're wrong
Pay attention to what others are saying because they can help you identify your mistakes.
Eradicate but vindicate as progress creeps along
As society progresses, it must eliminate old ways of thinking but still acknowledge the value of what it leaves behind.
Puritan work ethic maintains its subconscious edge
The Puritan work ethic is still ingrained in our society even though we may not be aware of it.
As Old Glory maintains your consciousness
The American flag remains an important symbol that influences people's thoughts and actions.
There's a loser in the house and a puppet on a stool
There are people who feel powerless and marginalized in society, while others are being controlled by those in power.
And a crowded way of life and a black reflecting pool
Living in a city can be overwhelming and isolating, making it difficult to find meaning in life.
And as the people bend the moral fabric dies
As people compromise their values and ethics, society as a whole becomes less moral.
Then the country can't pretend to ignore its people's cries
If enough people are unhappy with the state of society, the government must listen and take action.
Cause you are the government
The people are ultimately responsible for the actions of their government.
You are jurisprudence
The people determine what is just and fair in society through their actions and decisions.
You are the volition
The people have the power to make choices and take action that can shape the direction of society.
You are jurisdiction
The people have the power to enforce laws and protect their rights.
And I make a difference too
Even as an individual, you have the ability to influence society and effect change.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: GREG GRAFFIN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind