MC5

The American Ruse

Unmasking the Illusion: Decoding MC5's Message on American Deception
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Lyrics

They told you in school about freedom

Expresses the teaching about freedom in school.

But when you try to be free they never let ya

Highlights the difficulty of being truly free due to societal constraints.

They said "it's easy , nothing to it"

Mocking the notion that freedom is easy or straightforward.

And now the army's out to get ya

Suggests a threat from the military or authoritative forces.

Sixty nine America in terminal stasis

Describes America in 1969 as stagnant or paralyzed.

The air's so thick it's like drowning in molasses

Depicts a stifling atmosphere, possibly referring to social and political tension.

I'm sick and tired of paying these dues

Expresses frustration with societal expectations and obligations.

And I'm finally getting hip to the American ruse

Reveals a growing awareness or understanding of the deceptive nature of the American system.


I learned to say the pledge of allegiance

Recalls reciting the pledge of allegiance but implies mistreatment by authorities.

Before they beat me bloody down at the station

Describes a violent encounter with law enforcement.

They haven't got a word out of me since

Indicates a refusal to cooperate or conform.

I got a billion years probation

Expresses a long period of punishment or surveillance.


Sixty nine America in terminal stasis

Repeats the description of America in 1969 as stagnant or paralyzed.

The air's so thick it's like drowning in molasses

Reiterates the suffocating atmosphere, drawing a parallel to drowning in molasses.

I'm sick and tired of paying these dues

Repeats frustration with societal expectations and obligations.

And I'm sick to my guts of the American ruse

Intensifies the rejection of the deceptive American system.

Phony stars, oh no! crummy cars, oh no!

Rejects superficial aspects of American culture – fame, cars, and possessions.

Cheap guitars, oh no! Joe's primitive bar, nah!

Continues the rejection of materialism and superficiality.


Rock 'em back, Sonic!

Enigmatic exclamation, possibly expressing defiance or a call to action.

The way they pull you over it's suspicious

Describes suspicious behavior from authorities during traffic stops.

Yeah, for something that just ain't your fault

Highlights unjust treatment even when one is not at fault.

If you complain they're gonna get vicious

Warns against complaining, suggesting retaliation from authorities.

Kick in the teeth and charge you with assault

Describes a violent response from authorities, emphasizing their abuse of power.

Yeah, but I can see the chickens coming home to roost

Foresees consequences for societal wrongs catching up, particularly for the youth.

Young people everywhere are gonna cook their goose

Anticipates a reckoning for the deceptive actions of the American system.

Lots of kids are working to get rid of these blues

Posits that young people are actively working to overcome societal challenges.

Cause everybody's sick of the American ruse

Expresses widespread dissatisfaction with the deceptive American system.


Well well well, take a look around!

Repeatedly urges the listener to observe and assess the reality of the situation.

Well well well, take a look around!

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Well well well, take a look around!

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Well well well, take a look around!

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Well well well, take a look around!

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