I Rise

Madonna's song "I Rise" is a powerful anthem of resilience and empowerment, featuring a spoken word introduction by Emma Gonzalez, a prominent activist and survivor of the Parkland school shooting. The song begins with Gonzalez's defiant declaration, "We call BS!" which sets the tone for a message of standing up against injustice and refusing to be silenced. This introduction immediately grounds the song in a context of social activism and the fight for change, particularly in the face of gun violence and political apathy.

The lyrics of "I Rise" reflect a journey through pain and struggle, with Madonna acknowledging the hardships she has faced. Lines like "Died a thousand times, managed to survive" and "There's nothing you can do to me that hasn't been done" speak to a history of enduring suffering and emerging stronger. The repeated refrain "I rise" serves as a mantra of overcoming adversity, emphasizing the strength and resilience required to rise above challenges. The song's message is clear: no matter the obstacles, one can find the inner strength to persevere and thrive.

Madonna also touches on themes of freedom and self-empowerment, particularly in the lines "Freedom's what you choose to do with what's been done to you" and "No one can hurt you now unless you want them to." These lyrics suggest that true freedom comes from within and that individuals have the power to define their own experiences and responses to adversity. The song culminates in a collective call to action, with Madonna urging listeners to rise up together and create positive change. The repeated affirmations of "Yeah, we gonna rise up" and "We can get it together" reinforce the idea that unity and collective effort are essential in overcoming societal challenges.