Strange human being
Regurgitator
The Paradox of Modern Existence in 'Strange Human Being'
Regurgitator's song 'Strange Human Being' delves into the complexities and contradictions of contemporary life. The lyrics open with a biological metaphor, 'cells divide, multiply,' which sets the stage for a discussion on the mechanistic and repetitive nature of human existence. The line 'institutionalised nine to five' critiques the monotonous routine of modern work life, suggesting that while knowledge is power, it is often polarized and used to maintain the status quo. The imagery of 'killing time' and the difficulty in distinguishing 'the shit from the flies' further emphasizes the confusion and disillusionment that can accompany daily life.
The chorus, 'sometimes you don't make no sense at all,' captures the existential bewilderment that many people feel. This sense of confusion is compounded by the cyclical nature of history and human behavior, as suggested by the line 'sometimes it's like we've done it all before.' The repetition of 'strange human being' serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent oddities and contradictions in human nature.
The second verse shifts focus to societal issues, using the metaphor of a video game to describe modern warfare and consumerism. 'Another war for peace, video game' critiques the paradoxical nature of fighting for peace, while 'slot the coins, view the pain' highlights the commodification of suffering. The lines 'bugs to kill, poppin' the pills' and 'genetics one, immunity nil' point to the ongoing battles in healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry. The verse concludes with a critique of consumer culture, 'sugary lies, disembodied truths,' and the illusion of freedom in a market-driven society.
The song ends with a repeated dedication 'this one's for the kids,' suggesting a hope for future generations to navigate and perhaps rectify these paradoxes. Regurgitator's 'Strange Human Being' is a thought-provoking commentary on the absurdities and challenges of modern life, urging listeners to reflect on their own roles within these systems.