Savages
MARINA
The Primal Nature Within: Dissecting MARINA's 'Savages'
MARINA's song 'Savages' delves into the darker aspects of human nature, questioning the thin veneer of civilization that separates us from our primal instincts. The lyrics suggest that despite our societal advancements and the facade of civility, humans are still driven by innate, animalistic behaviors. The song opens with a stark observation of the perpetual existence of murder and war, implying that these are not just historical occurrences but are ingrained in human behavior. The reference to survival of the fittest and the dichotomy of rich against poor highlights the competitive and often ruthless nature of human society.
The chorus of 'Savages' presents a powerful image of humans as 'just animals still learning how to crawl,' suggesting that our progress as a species is still in its infancy when it comes to moral and ethical development. MARINA's use of the word 'savages' is a critical commentary on how, beneath the surface of modern life, humans can still exhibit barbaric and uncivilized traits. The song also touches on the theme of hypocrisy, where people hide their true selves behind the trappings of respectability, such as 'shirts, ties, and marriages.'
MARINA raises questions about whether our savage tendencies are a part of our genetic makeup or if they are learned behaviors. The song challenges listeners to reflect on the nature of evil and goodness within humanity, and whether we are inherently predisposed to violence or if it is a choice influenced by our environment. The repeated line 'I'm not afraid of God, I am afraid of man' underscores the idea that the real threat comes from within us, not from a higher power. 'Savages' is a thought-provoking piece that encourages introspection about the human condition and our capacity for both destruction and compassion.