Rock N Roll Nigger

Patti Smith's song 'Rock N Roll Nigger' is a powerful and provocative exploration of identity, rebellion, and societal exclusion. The term 'nigger' in the song is used not in its traditional racial context but as a metaphor for anyone who feels like an outsider or a misfit. Smith reclaims the word to represent those who are marginalized and who reject societal norms. The repeated phrase 'outside of society' underscores the desire to break free from conventional expectations and live authentically, even if it means being ostracized.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who is a 'black sheep' and a 'whore,' someone who defies societal standards and embraces their own path. This character grows stronger and more defiant, symbolized by the line 'Baby got a hand; got a finger on the trigger.' The song suggests that true freedom and self-realization come from embracing one's outsider status. The references to historical and cultural figures like Jimi Hendrix and Jackson Pollock, who were also considered outsiders in their time, further emphasize this theme of rebellion and nonconformity.

The spoken word section of the song adds a layer of philosophical reflection, suggesting that suffering and hardship can lead to growth and enlightenment. The imagery of being 'lost in a valley of pleasure' and 'lost in the infinite sea' conveys a sense of searching for meaning and identity. Ultimately, the song is a celebration of those who live on the fringes of society, who find strength and solidarity in their outsider status. It challenges listeners to question societal norms and to find their own path, even if it means being 'outside of society.'