Liberty
Justice Lyrics


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The modern penitentiary was born of failure - not success
And regular people knew it better than most:
American culture is rife with contradiction
Each inmate had the potential to be a prodigal son
But since suffering was the proper atonement of guilt
They were punished
Hard
Compassion was “inappropriate”
“Misdirected”
To show them empathy would be “socially disastrous”
And so prison “reform” only strengthened
The heart of social disorder
Punishment was a gift:
A sentimental project
Improperly placed




And freedom’s limits remain
The American legacy

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Justice's song "Liberty" delve deep into the contradictions and failures of the modern penitentiary system in America. The opening lines assert that the existence of prisons as we know them today stems from a history of failure rather than success. The idea that regular people are more attuned to this truth than those in power suggests a disconnect between those in positions of authority and the reality experienced by those affected by the prison system. This disconnect highlights a broader societal issue regarding the administration of justice.


The lyrics go on to discuss the paradoxical nature of American culture, which is said to be fraught with contradiction. The notion that each inmate has the potential to be a prodigal son implies that individuals are not inherently irredeemable, but rather capable of transformation and redemption. However, the prevailing attitude towards punishment as a means of atonement complicates this potential for rehabilitation. The emphasis on suffering as the proper way to atone for guilt reinforces a punitive mentality that prioritizes retribution over restoration.


The refusal to show empathy and compassion towards inmates is seen as a societal failure, with such sentiments being labeled as "inappropriate" and "misdirected." The fear of empathy being deemed "socially disastrous" indicates a lack of understanding or willingness to address the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. The resistance to genuine reform within the prison system is viewed as exacerbating social disorder rather than alleviating it, as punitive measures perpetuate cycles of punishment and recidivism.


The lyrics ultimately critique the flawed notion that punishment is a gift or a sentimental project aimed at correcting behavior. The misplaced priorities in how freedom and justice are conceptualized within the American context are highlighted as part of a larger legacy that continues to shape the landscape of incarceration and societal attitudes towards those affected by it. By juxtaposing the ideals of liberty and justice with the reality of a system that often falls short of these principles, the song challenges listeners to reconsider the true meaning and implications of freedom within the American landscape.


Line by Line Meaning

The modern penitentiary was born of failure - not success
The creation of prisons was not a successful solution to crime.


And regular people knew it better than most:
Ordinary individuals understood this problem more than others.


American culture is rife with contradiction
The American society is full of conflicting beliefs and values.


Each inmate had the potential to be a prodigal son
Every prisoner had the ability to change and redeem themselves.


But since suffering was the proper atonement of guilt
Because it was believed that punishment was necessary for redemption.


They were punished
Prisoners were subjected to harsh punishment.


Hard
The punishment was severe and unforgiving.


Compassion was “inappropriate”
Showing empathy towards prisoners was seen as wrong.


“Misdirected”
Any attempts at understanding and compassion were misguided.


To show them empathy would be “socially disastrous”
Displaying empathy towards inmates would be seen as harmful to society.


And so prison “reform” only strengthened
Efforts to improve the prison system actually made it worse.


The heart of social disorder
The root cause of societal problems.


Punishment was a gift:
Punishment was seen as a valuable tool for reform.


A sentimental project
Punishment was viewed with emotional attachment.


Improperly placed
Punishment was wrongly implemented and ineffective.


And freedom’s limits remain
The boundaries of freedom are still restricted.


The American legacy
This is the lasting impact of the American approach to justice.




Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Rebekah Gordon

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@MLG_MAN_1223

“We defeated the wrong enemy” - General Patton

@1daniel66

Our greatest ally…

Wish more people new about the USS Liberty.

Heartbreaking testimonies from true Americans.

Never forget the USS Liberty

@SecNotSureSir

Anyone that makes that claim and knows the story of the USS Liberty and her crew, can be viewed the as someone that would take a sledge hammer to the Wall Memorial in DC. I see no difference between the two and no explaining or excuses can change that.

@rabbiezekielgoldberg2497

Just tell them that the Russians sank it and send/link them this video.

@1949kf

Same bandit state also had a hand in 9-11 and the anthrax attacks. Remember the “Dancing Israelis” ?

@loco1j

Israel was also at the forefront of the 911 operation.

@roysmith3767

' Search . ' The Military Knows Israel Did 911 '

11 More Replies...

@theimperialist2686

Never forget the USS Liberty.

@TKO67

NEVER. Israel must be held accountable.

@gwag8410

Never Forget The USS LIBERTY!!💙❤️

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