Exodus
4. Homestuck Lyrics

The lyrics of "Exodus" by Homestuck's 4 narrate a journey of self-discovery, social consciousness, and resistance against oppressive systems.

The first verse discusses the power of words as a means of self-expression and release. The artist initially used rap as a way to vent and express their frustrations. However, they start to realize the impact their words can have, comparing it to the power of preaching in a church. They acknowledge the existence of evil and urge listeners to repent. The artist also emphasizes the importance of being mindful of who we support and who we allow to hold power. They express their distrust towards politicians, refusing to give them their vote and instead, advocating for their imprisonment.

In the second verse, the artist reflects on their growth and evolution as a rapper. They admit to initially rapping for the wrong reasons, striving for competition and popularity. However, they recognize the need to change their style to appeal to a wider audience, specifically younger listeners. They mention their dedication to their craft, comparing their commitment to working out during an off-season. The artist aims to find a balance between conscious lyrics and not coming across as preachy.

The chorus, "Exodus, oh ohhh yh, movement of Jah People," signifies a mass departure or journey of Jah People, referencing those who believe in rastafarian principles and spiritual enlightenment. It symbolizes a collective movement towards liberation and spiritual awakening.

The third verse emphasizes the chaotic state of the world, highlighting the existence of an ongoing war. The artist encourages listeners to be prepared and knowledgeable about the situation, using the metaphor of "suiting up" for battle. They express frustration and a desire to retaliate against the injustices faced, comparing it to the feeling of wanting to burst like an overblown balloon. The lyrics also mention the need to confront the looting of labor and resources by those in power, particularly referencing the exploitation of Jamaican culture. The artist emphasizes the urgency of action, highlighting that delay is not an option.

The final chorus and verse continue the themes of resistance and spirituality. The chorus reaffirms the notion of the Exodus as a movement of people shifting consciousness and driving out evil. The artist mentions their battle being both spiritual and physical, with a sense of Biblical importance. They reject passive waiting for miracles, acknowledging that hope alone can paralyze people. The lyrics allude to the artist's personal experience with their family, suggesting that their struggles are a testament to the need for action.

Overall, "Exodus" serves as a rallying cry for self-discovery, social awareness, and resistance against oppression. It calls for a collective movement towards liberation, urging listeners to be aware, active, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.