Rats

Pearl Jam's song 'Rats' offers a scathing critique of human behavior by contrasting it with the behavior of rats. The lyrics paint a picture of rats as creatures that, despite their negative reputation, exhibit a form of integrity and simplicity that humans often lack. The song opens with a description of rats' basic survival instincts, highlighting their lack of greed and selfishness. They don't eat or sleep excessively, and they don't exploit others for their gain. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of human flaws.

The song's chorus and subsequent verses delve into the darker aspects of human nature. Humans are depicted as beings who scam, fight, and oppress others to maintain their status and wealth. The lyrics 'Starve the poor so they can be well fed' and 'Line their holes with the dead ones bread' are particularly striking, emphasizing the exploitation and inequality prevalent in society. In contrast, rats are shown as creatures that don't engage in such harmful behaviors, making them, in a twisted sense, morally superior to humans.

The song concludes with a reference to 'Ben,' a nod to the 1972 song by Michael Jackson about a boy's friendship with a rat. This reference adds a layer of irony and poignancy, suggesting that even a rat can be a better companion than a human. Pearl Jam uses this comparison to hold up a mirror to society, urging listeners to reflect on their actions and the impact they have on others. The song's raw and unfiltered lyrics, combined with its grunge musical style, make it a powerful commentary on the human condition.