Brotherhood Of Man
Motörhead
The Bleak Reality of Human Conflict in 'Brotherhood Of Man'
The song 'Brotherhood Of Man' by Motörhead is a powerful commentary on the destructive nature of human conflict and the dark side of human nature. The lyrics paint a grim picture of war, chaos, and the collapse of moral society, suggesting that these are recurring themes throughout history. The song's title, 'Brotherhood Of Man,' is deeply ironic, as the content of the song reflects the opposite of unity and brotherhood, instead highlighting division and violence among people.
Lemmy Kilmister, the frontman of Motörhead, was known for his candid and often critical view of society and human behavior. In this song, he addresses the futility of war and the senselessness of violence, suggesting that individuals are often forgotten and that their deaths in such conflicts are in vain. The 'storm of iron in the sky' and cities 'burning to the ground' evoke images of total destruction, while the 'brotherhood of man' is depicted as a failed concept, with humanity's legacy being one of 'lunacy.'
The song also delves into the themes of greed, jealousy, and the human propensity for violence. It criticizes the blind faith placed in 'lying prophets' and the rule of 'monsters' over the world, which could be interpreted as a jab at corrupt leaders and the power-hungry. The repeated phrase 'brotherhood of man' serves as a bitter reminder of the potential for unity and peace that is squandered by humanity's darker impulses. Overall, the song is a lamentation of the human condition and a call to recognize and address the flaws that lead to such widespread strife and suffering.