Promises

Fugazi's song 'Promises' delves into the complexities and often the futility of promises and words in human relationships. The lyrics open with a reflection on words and expressions, highlighting how they serve as confessions of our positions and perceptions. The song suggests that these verbal commitments, often seen as binding and significant, are ultimately fragile and unreliable. The line 'Promises are shit' starkly conveys the band's disillusionment with the weight and meaning we place on promises, suggesting that they are as transient and insubstantial as the air we breathe.

The song further explores the entanglement of words and desires, portraying them as a source of confusion and conflict. The repeated plea to be freed from the 'give and take' and the 'great debate' underscores a desire to escape the constraints and expectations imposed by verbal commitments. This sentiment is reinforced by the lines 'You will do what you do / I will do what I do / We will do what we do,' which emphasize individual autonomy over collective promises. The song suggests that actions and intentions are more significant than the words we use to express them.

Fugazi's raw and direct lyrical style, combined with their post-hardcore musical approach, amplifies the intensity of the message. The band's critique of promises and words reflects a broader skepticism about societal norms and the reliability of human communication. By urging listeners to 'rearrange and see it through,' the song advocates for a more pragmatic and action-oriented approach to life, where deeds speak louder than words. This perspective resonates with Fugazi's ethos of authenticity and integrity, challenging listeners to reconsider the value they place on verbal commitments and to focus instead on meaningful actions.