Kill the Messenger
Silenced Truths: Rebellion Unveiled in 'Kill the Messenger'
Lyrics
The messenger came with bad news from the front
The messenger brings unfavorable news from the front lines of a conflict.
Said "the soldiers are starving and their swords are all blunt
Reports that the soldiers are suffering from hunger, and their weapons are ineffective.
They need a show of support or some futile sign
There's a request for support or a symbolic gesture, though it's acknowledged as futile.
That's what they told me to tell you, not even the words are mine..."
The messenger emphasizes that the words aren't original, merely a relay of the message.
The messenger came with bad news from the war
Similar situation as line 1 but related to the broader war.
Said "the fine young men forgot who they were fighting for
The soldiers have lost sight of their purpose, not wanting fame on TV screens.
They don't wanna be stars on your tv screen
Expresses a general sentiment against being glorified as stars on television.
That's the general feeling, please don't blame it on me"
The messenger distances themselves from the soldiers' feelings, avoiding blame.
And the people said "one and one is two
The public acknowledges a simple truth (one and one is two), feeling helpless.
There's nothing left for us to do
With a sense of resignation, people believe there's nothing more they can do.
But since we can blame it all on you
The blame is shifted onto the messenger, choosing to hold them responsible.
We will kill the messenger"
The ultimate decision to "kill the messenger" is made collectively.
The messenger came with bad news from the town
News arrives about issues in the town, such as communication and security problems.
Said "the phone-lines are on strike and the doormen are all down
Specifically, phone lines are on strike, and doormen are unavailable.
They've turned your den of thieves into a temple
A metaphorical transformation of a den of thieves into a place needing moral guidance.
They need someone of stature to set them an example"
A call for someone of high status to set a moral example for the town.
And the people said "two and two is four
The public repeats the pattern of acknowledging truth but rejecting further information.
Don't tell us anymore
An expression of disinterest in additional details, already knowing the outcome.
We all know the score
The public collectively decides to blame and target the messenger.
We must kill the messenger"
The resolution to "kill the messenger" is reinforced.
Someone brought the news to the messenger's folks
Someone informs the messenger's family about their demise.
He said "your son's been killed two times"
Reports that the messenger has been killed twice, leading to disbelief.
They said "is that a joke? "
The family questions the seriousness of the news, possibly considering it a joke.
He said "no
The messenger denies it's a joke, explaining the tragic circumstances.
He was he victim of ignorant minds
Attributing the death to ignorance, emphasizing the tragic nature of the event.
I hate to bring such bad news, please don't think me unkind"
The messenger expresses regret for delivering such grim news.
And the family said "one and one is two
The family, like the public, recognizes the truth but feels powerless.
There's nothing left for us to do
A sense of helplessness echoes, suggesting no recourse for the grieving family.
But since you're here and we can blame it on you
The family, given the opportunity, decides to blame the messenger for their sorrow.
We will kill the messenger
The decision to "kill the messenger" is extended to the family's grief.
So if you want to send a message...
The lyrics end with a cryptic phrase, possibly hinting at the consequences of messaging.
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