Big A, Little a

Crass's song 'Big A, Little a' is a powerful anthem of rebellion against external control and societal constraints. The lyrics challenge the listener to question the authority figures and institutions that seek to impose their will and morality on individuals. The song opens with a direct confrontation, asking if the listener will allow themselves to be imprisoned by the boundaries set by external forces. This sets the tone for a critique of religious, political, and social systems that aim to control and suppress individuality.

The song employs vivid imagery and metaphors to depict the oppressive nature of these institutions. For instance, the lyrics personify God, the Queen, and the Prime Minister as figures who enforce conformity and obedience through fear and punishment. The reference to 'hellfire and damnation' and 'prisons and mental homes' highlights the coercive tactics used to maintain control. The song also alludes to George Orwell's '1984,' emphasizing the pervasive surveillance and control exerted by the state. This creates a dystopian vision of society where freedom is an illusion, and individuality is constantly under threat.

Despite the bleak portrayal of societal control, 'Big A, Little a' ultimately delivers a message of empowerment and self-determination. The chorus and concluding verses encourage listeners to be true to themselves and take control of their own lives. The lyrics assert that individuals have the power to change their circumstances and reject the systems that seek to define them. By advocating for personal responsibility and active resistance, Crass inspires a sense of hope and agency. The song's call to 'be exactly who you want to be' and 'do what you want to do' serves as a rallying cry for those who refuse to be confined by societal expectations.