Capital
Amyl And The Sniffers
The Illusion of Meaning: A Dive into 'Capital' by Amyl And The Sniffers
Amyl And The Sniffers' song 'Capital' is a raw and unfiltered critique of modern society, capitalism, and the existential crises that come with it. The lyrics delve into the disillusionment with the pursuit of comfort and the superficiality of existence. The opening lines question the very essence of comfort and perseverance, suggesting that in a world driven by capital, meaning is often lost. The artist also touches on the objectification and exploitation of bodies, highlighting the hypocrisy in societal norms.
The song paints a vivid picture of Australia's environmental crises, juxtaposing the burning landscape with the apathy and lack of consciousness among people. The imagery of swimming in the river and being part of it symbolizes a sense of belonging yet feeling powerless to effect change. This sense of helplessness is further emphasized by the repetitive chorus, 'It's just for capital, am I an animal?' which questions the dehumanizing effects of capitalism.
The lyrics also address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous Australians, criticizing the government's actions and the societal indifference towards these issues. The song's existential themes are encapsulated in lines like 'Freedom don’t exist, humans don’t exist, existing to exist, life is meaningless,' reflecting a deep sense of nihilism. Despite this, there is a fleeting sense of purpose found in the act of giving, even if it is just an illusion. The song ultimately captures the duality of disdain and excitement, portraying the complex emotions that come with navigating a world driven by capital and superficial values.