RISE
S.F.A Lyrics
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You say you're going to change the world, the revolution's here
But the rich laugh at you while you think you're so smart
Because the whole world to you is Tompkins Square Park
No more, we rise, we fight, never give in
You say you're politically correct and you're so great
It takes deeds not words to make the system fall
Instead of burning flags go burn City Hall
The lyrics of S.F.A's song "Rise" criticize the mentality of a self-proclaimed revolutionary who sits on a corner drinking beer and claiming to change the world. Despite this person's political correctness and perceived intellect, they fail to make an impactful change, with the rich laughing at them. The person's world revolves around the small area of Tompkins Square Park, showing a limited and narrow perspective. The song suggests that action is needed instead of just words and morality. They advocate for attacking the root of the problem by burning City Hall instead of burning flags.
Overall, the song highlights the importance of action and unity to bring about change, rather than just empty promises and statements.
Line by Line Meaning
You sit on the corner and you drink your beer
You're stagnant and complacent, indulging in simple pleasures instead of actively striving for change
You say you're going to change the world, the revolution's here
You boast about changing the world, but you're not doing anything tangible to bring about a revolution
But the rich laugh at you while you think you're so smart
The wealthy disregard and ridicule your naive ideas and underestimation of their power
Because the whole world to you is Tompkins Square Park
Your scope is limited to a small area and you lack a broader perspective on the world and its problems
No more, we rise, we fight, never give in
We are done with passivity and are ready to rise up, fight against oppression, and never back down
You say you're politically correct and you're so great
You believe you're morally superior and verbally condemn injustice, but you fail to take action
But morals alone won't bring down the state
Simply having ethical values and principles will not lead to the dismantling of oppressive systems
It takes deeds not words to make the system fall
Actions, not mere words or gestures, are necessary to overthrow the oppressive system
Instead of burning flags go burn City Hall
Rather than merely expressing dissent through symbolic gestures, direct action is needed to challenge the institutions perpetuating injustice
Contributed by Joshua D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.