The Devil In The Business
Emir Kusturica & The No Smoking Orchestra
The Devil's Plea: A Satirical Take on Human Folly
In 'The Devil In The Business' by Emir Kusturica & The No Smoking Orchestra, the song takes a satirical and thought-provoking approach to human history and the concept of blame. The lyrics are delivered from the perspective of the devil, who humorously addresses the passengers on a flight, symbolizing humanity. The devil sarcastically points out that he is always blamed for humanity's mistakes and misdeeds, highlighting the tendency of people to externalize their faults rather than take responsibility for their actions.
The song cleverly uses the metaphor of a flight to illustrate the journey of human history. The devil, acting as the flight's captain, mentions the emergency exit and the no-smoking rule, subtly hinting at the dire consequences of human actions and the need for change. The devil's claim of being a 'victim of propaganda war' underscores the idea that he is unfairly scapegoated for the world's problems, while the real issues lie within human behavior and choices.
As the song progresses, the devil offers a 'friendly advice' to humanity, suggesting a peace agreement and new standards. This can be interpreted as a call for introspection and a shift in societal values. The devil's address to the business class passengers, who 'have the power' and 'the means,' serves as a critique of those in positions of influence and their role in perpetuating or resolving global issues. The song's blend of humor, irony, and social commentary makes it a compelling piece that encourages listeners to reflect on their own actions and the broader implications of collective human behavior.