I Was There
Surveillance Lyrics

The song "I Was There" by Surveillance tells the story of a witness to various events of violence and oppression, but who remains silent and inactive throughout. The lyrics are introspective and haunting, serving to evoke deep emotions in the listener.

The first verse sets the stage for what is to come, as the witness recalls being present at the very start of the events that will unfold. The imagery of roots taking hold in fertile soil implies that this was a long time coming, and the tension slowly building suggests that something ugly and violent is about to occur.

The second verse then describes the actual violence as it unfolds, with the witness present but not taking action. The truncheons swinging and the pepper spray burning are visceral and difficult to read about, as is the fact that the television tells the witness they are safe when clearly they are not.

The third verse takes it up a notch, as the bullets start flying and bodies begin falling. The use of the word "golden" to describe the bullets is particularly effective, as it suggests that the violence is being glamorized or justified in some way. And yet the witness, still, looks away.

The fourth verse touches on the aftermath of the violence, as the witness is locked up and treated like an animal. The reference to the fact that freedom isn't lucrative is particularly poignant, as it hints at the corrupt forces that are driving the violence in the first place.

In the fifth verse, the fuse is lit and a thunderclap of Heaven's wrath is described. This is likely a metaphorical description of some sort of cataclysmic event - whether it be a natural disaster, another act of violence, or simply a societal collapse - that is the result of all the previous violence and oppression that has taken place. The million voices crying out are a reminder of all those who suffered and perished in the events that this witness witnessed.

Finally, the last verse describes the aftermath of this cataclysmic event, with bodies strewn everywhere and no lessons having been learned. The authorities continue to spout the same lies that they did before, suggesting that nothing has really changed.

Overall, "I Was There" is a powerful and moving song that serves as a stark reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and violence, and of taking action when necessary to prevent it from happening.