Bullet and A Target

Citizen Cope's song "Bullet and A Target" delves into the harsh realities and struggles faced by individuals in contemporary society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various forms of suffering and systemic failures, from drug addiction to political corruption. The mention of Mr. Dali Lamas and heroin addiction highlights the contrast between spiritual ideals and the grim reality of substance abuse. The reference to amputees in Freetown, Sierra Leone, points to the brutal consequences of civil conflict and the neglect of vulnerable populations. The song criticizes institutions like the church and the state for their dishonesty and the way they manipulate and control the youth, fostering an environment of hostility and despair.

The chorus, "But what you've done here is put yourself between a bullet and a target," serves as a powerful metaphor for the precarious situations people find themselves in. It suggests that individuals are often caught in dangerous and unavoidable circumstances, where their choices are limited, and survival becomes a matter of navigating between threats. This line encapsulates the feeling of being trapped and the inevitability of having to make difficult decisions to escape harm.

The second verse shifts focus to a personal story of a woman who has faced her own set of challenges. Her life is marked by neglect, poor choices, and abusive relationships. The imagery of her dark, wavy hair and carefree voice contrasts with the harshness of her reality, including an indifferent father, substance abuse, and an unstable partner. Her eventual disappearance symbolizes the desperate need to escape from a life filled with danger and disappointment. The recurring theme of being caught between a bullet and a target underscores the universal struggle of trying to find a way out of seemingly impossible situations.