Welcome To The Occupation

R.E.M.'s 'Welcome To The Occupation' is a powerful critique of imperialism, exploitation, and the socio-political dynamics that underpin these practices. The song's lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that paint a vivid picture of the consequences of colonialism and economic domination. The opening lines, 'Hang your collar up inside / Hang your dollar on me,' suggest a relinquishing of personal identity and freedom in exchange for economic gain, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of such occupations.

The song juxtaposes the 'educated' with the 'primitive and wild,' underscoring the often patronizing and reductive views held by colonizers towards indigenous populations. This dichotomy is further explored in the lines 'Here we stand and here we fight / All your fallen heroes / Held and dyed and skinned alive,' which evoke images of resistance and the brutal suppression of those who oppose imperialist forces. The reference to 'Congress fire' and 'propagate confusion' points to the political machinations and misinformation that often accompany such occupations, further entrenching the power dynamics at play.

The imagery of 'sugar cane and coffee cup / Copper, steel and cattle' serves as a reminder of the natural and human resources exploited for economic gain. The phrase 'Fire on the hemisphere below' alludes to the destructive impact of these practices on the Global South, where many of these resources are extracted. The repeated plea to 'Listen to me' emphasizes the urgency and importance of acknowledging these issues and the voices of those affected. Through its evocative lyrics, 'Welcome To The Occupation' calls for a critical examination of the systems of power and exploitation that continue to shape our world.