Kill Your Sons

Lou Reed's song 'Kill Your Sons' is a raw and unflinching look at the brutal realities of mental health treatment in the mid-20th century. The lyrics paint a harrowing picture of the use of electroshock therapy and heavy medication, reflecting Reed's own experiences with psychiatric institutions. The opening lines criticize the superficial solutions offered by psychiatrists, who prefer to keep patients at home under heavy medication rather than providing genuine care. This approach leaves the protagonist unable to perform simple tasks like reading, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of such treatments.

The song also delves into the dysfunction within the protagonist's family, adding another layer of despair. The mention of a father who violently breaks a table and a sister married to a seemingly brainless man underscores the chaos and lack of support in the protagonist's personal life. This familial turmoil mirrors the broader societal neglect and misunderstanding of mental health issues, suggesting that the protagonist's struggles are not just personal but systemic.

Reed's references to specific psychiatric hospitals like Creedmor and Paine Whitney add a layer of authenticity and personal anguish to the song. The mention of drugs and their effects, particularly the use of Thorazine, paints a vivid picture of the numbing and often harmful treatments patients endured. The repeated refrain, 'Don't you know they're gonna kill your sons?' serves as a chilling warning about the destructive nature of these practices. The song's relentless rhythm and Reed's haunting delivery amplify the sense of urgency and despair, making 'Kill Your Sons' a powerful critique of the mental health system and a call for more compassionate and effective care.