Brutality
Nirvana 2002 Lyrics


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Brutal nations
Reap rewards
Onward march
Into a brutal world

To not surrender
Strike them down
Resistance futile
Masses call

March to freedom
Lost oblivion




All corrupt
Hope still alive

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Brutality" convey a sense of hopelessness, despair, and futility in the face of an oppressive, violent world. The song seems to suggest that brutality is a fundamental aspect of human nature and that the world is inherently violent and cruel. The opening lines, "Brutal nations/Reap rewards/Onward march/Into a brutal world," set the tone for the rest of the song, painting a bleak picture of a world where violence and aggression are the norm. The refrain, "To not surrender/Strike them down/Resistance futile/Masses call," suggests a sense of desperation and hopelessness, as if there is no way to push back against the brutal forces of the world.


The rest of the lyrics are similarly bleak, with lines like "March to freedom/Lost oblivion/All corrupt/Hope still alive" suggesting that while there may be some hope for a better future, it is constantly being eroded by the brutality of the world. The repetition of the word "brutal" throughout the song reinforces this sense of hopelessness and despair, underscoring the idea that brutality is an inescapable aspect of the human condition.


Overall, the lyrics to "Brutality" are a stark reminder of the dark side of human nature and the often-violent dynamics that govern the world we live in. The song provides a sobering reflection on the state of the world and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that stand in the way of peace, justice, and equality.


Line by Line Meaning

Brutal nations
Countries with severe and violent ruling tactics


Reap rewards
Gain profit through these inhumane means


Onward march
Continuing forward with their oppressive agenda


Into a brutal world
Their actions contribute to a world full of cruelty and suffering


To not surrender
Remaining steadfast against these brutal nations


Strike them down
Take action against these oppressive forces


Resistance futile
Even with resistance, these nations still hold their power


Masses call
The public pleads for help against these oppressive entities


March to freedom
Working towards liberating themselves from this brutality


Lost oblivion
A state of being forgotten, ignored or neglected amidst all of this chaos


All corrupt
Everything around them is tainted and immoral


Hope still alive
Despite the oppression, there is still a glimmer of faith in a better future




Contributed by Camilla T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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