State of the Union
Rise Against: A Sobering Anthem on a Nation's Descent
Lyrics
If we're the flagship of peace and prosperity
If the country represents peace and prosperity, it is in a critical situation, facing imminent collapse.
We're taking on water and about to fuckin' sink
The nation is metaphorically sinking, facing significant problems or crises.
No one seems to notice, no one even blinks
Despite the dire situation, people are oblivious or indifferent to the impending disaster.
The crew all left the passengers to die under the sea
The leadership has abandoned the citizens, leaving them to perish, emphasizing a lack of responsibility.
Countdown, to the very end,
A countdown to an inevitable conclusion, possibly the collapse or downfall of society.
Equality, an invitation that we won't extend
Equality, a fundamental principle, is not being extended to everyone, creating divisions.
Ready aim, pull the trigger now,
A call to action, urging someone to take drastic measures.
In time you firmly secure your place in hell
By taking action, one secures a place in hell, implying that the means to an end may be morally questionable.
State of the union address,
Reference to the state of the nation, where the situation is addressed, but not necessarily improved.
Reads war torn country still a mess
The country is described as war-torn, still grappling with significant issues.
The words: power, death, and distorted truth
Key themes in the state of the union address are power, death, and distorted truth, suggesting a grim reality.
Are read between the lines of the red, white, and blue
The harsh realities are hidden behind patriotic symbols (red, white, and blue).
Countdown, to the very end,
Continuation of the countdown, reinforcing the idea of an impending crisis.
Equality, an invitation that we won't extend
Reiteration that equality is not being extended, contributing to societal problems.
Ready aim, pull the trigger now,
Repeating the call to take action, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
In time you firmly secure your place in hell
Reinforcing that taking action leads to an undesirable outcome, securing a place in hell.
'Guilty' is what our graves will read,
Anticipated verdict on the graves of the people – guilt – indicating a failure to prevent a tragedy.
No years, no family,
No legacy or future for the guilty, emphasizing the severity of the consequences.
We did nothing to stop the murder of a people just like us
The failure to prevent the murder of a similar population is highlighted, underscoring a lack of action or intervention.
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