Regular People (Conceit)

Pantera's 'Regular People (Conceit)' is a raw and powerful declaration of self-confidence and defiance. The song's lyrics convey a sense of pride and resilience, as the narrator addresses an unnamed adversary who embodies arrogance and false superiority. The opening lines, 'I've trampled on that road, that you think you own,' set the tone for a confrontation between the narrator and this conceited figure. The narrator asserts their dominance and authenticity, contrasting their own lived experiences with the superficiality of their opponent's attitude.

The recurring refrain, 'Most regular people would say it's hard, and any streetwise son of a bitch knows, don't fuck with this,' underscores the narrator's streetwise wisdom and toughness. This line serves as a warning to those who underestimate the narrator's strength and resolve. The song's aggressive tone and confrontational language reflect Pantera's signature style, characterized by heavy guitar riffs and intense vocals. The band's music often explores themes of rebellion, individuality, and resistance against societal norms.

Throughout the song, the narrator emphasizes their authenticity and the futility of their adversary's attempts to emulate them. Lines like 'There's been so many times, you practice in your mirror, to be just like me, but you just can't see, you ain't got the balls, son,' highlight the narrator's disdain for those who lack genuine courage and integrity. The song's message is clear: true strength and respect are earned through real-life experiences and unwavering self-belief, not through pretense or imitation. 'Regular People (Conceit)' is a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever faced down arrogance and emerged victorious, embodying Pantera's ethos of unapologetic self-assertion and defiance.