As a fan of Motionless in White, one song that has always resonated with me is “America” from their 2012 album, Infamous. The lyrics, combined with the band’s signature dark and heavy sound, create a powerful and thought-provoking message about the state of our society and the world we live in.
Table of Contents
The song opens with the line, “We take medication to be someone else,” highlighting the prevalent issue of people turning to substances in an attempt to escape their reality. It suggests that our society encourages individuals to conform and become someone they are not, instead of embracing their true selves.
The following line, “And we take off our clothes to pay for the bills,” criticizes the objectification and commodification of the human body. It suggests that people are willing to do anything, even compromising their dignity, to meet their financial needs.
The lyrics continue to criticize the state of the entertainment industry with the line, “Making saints out of useless pop stars. Where’s the intelligence?” This highlights the often shallow and vapid nature of popular culture, where talent and substance are overlooked in favor of image and fame.
The chorus of the song repeats the word “America,” emphasizing the focus on the country and its current state. It questions the concept of freedom in a society that is plagued by sickness and depravity. The line, “So why the fuck are you looking at me?” expresses the frustration and feeling of being judged by others while society itself is facing numerous issues.
The second verse of the song tackles the issue of oil prices and how they affect our ability to sustain ourselves. It criticizes the reliance on fast food and the need for constant attention and validation through social media.
Motionless in White doesn’t hold back when it comes to addressing the political landscape either. The line, “While they’re all eating cake up on Capitol Hill,” serves as a metaphor for the disconnect between those in power and the struggles faced by the average citizen.
The chorus repeats once again, driving home the central message of the song. It questions the paradox of a nation that claims to be the “home of the free,” while its citizens face various issues and challenges.
Personal Reflection
Listening to “America” by Motionless in White always evokes a range of emotions within me. It serves as a reminder to question the society we live in, to think critically about the messages we are fed, and to strive for a more compassionate and inclusive world.
As someone who has struggled with societal pressures and the need for validation, this song has been a cathartic experience for me. It has encouraged me to embrace my true self and to question the norms and expectations imposed upon me by society.
The powerful lyrics and haunting sound of “America” make it a standout track in Motionless in White’s discography. It serves as a reminder to critically examine the world around us and to seek positive change.
Overall, “America” by Motionless in White resonates with me as a call to action, urging us all to challenge the status quo and strive for a society that values individuality, intelligence, and true freedom.
About the Song
“America” is the third track on the album Infamous, released in 2012. It was also released as the third single from the album. The deluxe edition of Infamous features a Celldweller remix of this song.
The song was written by Chris Motionless and its music video was directed by Shawn Crahan. It was released on April 23, 2013.
Source: Genius
