The American Ruse

MC5's song "The American Ruse" is a powerful critique of the American socio-political landscape of the late 1960s. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of disillusionment with the promises of freedom and democracy that were taught in schools. The song opens with a stark contrast between the idealistic teachings of freedom and the harsh reality of societal constraints, where attempts to exercise freedom are met with resistance and repression. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, "They told you in school about freedom, but when you try to be free they never let ya." The song's reference to "Sixty-nine America in terminal stasis" paints a picture of a country stuck in a state of stagnation, with the air so thick it feels like "drowning in molasses," symbolizing the suffocating atmosphere of the time.

The song also delves into the personal experiences of the narrator, who has been subjected to police brutality and systemic injustice. The pledge of allegiance, a symbol of national pride, is juxtaposed with the violence inflicted upon the narrator, highlighting the hypocrisy and brutality of the system. The line, "I learned to say the pledge of allegiance before they beat me bloody down at the station," underscores the coercive nature of patriotism and the severe consequences of dissent. The narrator's billion years of probation further emphasize the inescapable and oppressive nature of the American justice system.

MC5's lyrics also touch on the superficiality and materialism prevalent in American culture, with references to "phony stars," "crummy cars," and "cheap guitars." These lines criticize the hollow and unfulfilling aspects of consumerism. The song's climax, with the repeated call to "take a look around," serves as a rallying cry for awareness and action. The mention of young people working to rid themselves of the blues and the chickens coming home to roost suggests a brewing revolution and a collective awakening to the injustices of the American system. "The American Ruse" is a raw and unfiltered expression of frustration, anger, and a call for change, capturing the spirit of rebellion that defined the era.