Choose Life (feat. Underworld)

Ewan McGregor's 'Choose Life (feat. Underworld)' is a powerful monologue that critiques the mundane and materialistic aspects of modern life. The song opens with a series of commands, urging the listener to 'Choose life,' followed by a list of conventional societal expectations: a job, a career, a family, and various consumer goods. This repetitive enumeration of life's supposed essentials highlights the monotony and superficiality of a consumer-driven existence. The use of expletives and the sarcastic tone further emphasize the speaker's disdain for these societal norms.

The song's central message is a rejection of this prescribed path. The speaker declares, 'I choose not to choose life. I choose somethin' else,' signaling a desire to break free from societal expectations and find an alternative way of living. This sentiment resonates with the themes of rebellion and non-conformity, often associated with the counterculture movements of the late 20th century. The repetition of 'Choose life' juxtaposed with the speaker's refusal to do so creates a powerful contrast, underscoring the tension between societal pressure and individual freedom.

Culturally, 'Choose Life' is closely associated with the 1996 film 'Trainspotting,' in which Ewan McGregor's character, Renton, delivers this monologue. The film, and by extension the song, became emblematic of a generation disillusioned with the conventional markers of success and happiness. The raw, unfiltered language and the stark imagery of a life wasted on consumerism and mindless entertainment serve as a wake-up call, urging listeners to question their own choices and the societal norms they adhere to. Ultimately, 'Choose Life' is a call to action, encouraging individuals to seek meaning and authenticity beyond the confines of materialism and conformity.