War For Religion
Scars on Broadway
The Futility of War and the Search for Identity
"War For Religion" by Scars on Broadway is a powerful critique of the senselessness and destructiveness of war, particularly those fought in the name of religion. The song opens with a declaration of survival, suggesting that the narrator has endured the chaos and devastation of war. The repeated use of the word "war" emphasizes the omnipresence of conflict and its impact on humanity, highlighting the idea that everyone involved is both a participant and a victim, a "sinner" in the grand scheme of things.
The imagery of a "merry-go-round" serves as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of war and the repetitive, unending struggle for power and dominance. This metaphor also reflects the narrator's internal turmoil and search for identity amidst the chaos. The merry-go-round, a symbol of childhood innocence and joy, is juxtaposed with the harsh reality of war, underscoring the loss of innocence and the perpetual state of conflict. The narrator's quest for self-discovery and a "fight" suggests a deeper existential struggle, questioning the purpose and morality of such wars.
The song's explicit rejection of "war for religion" is a bold statement against the use of religious ideologies to justify violence and conflict. This sentiment is further reinforced by the repeated questioning of identity, "Who are you? In my mind, who are you? In my life," which suggests a profound disillusionment with the motives behind such wars. Scars on Broadway, known for their hard-hitting lyrics and alternative rock sound, use this song to challenge listeners to reflect on the true cost of war and the personal and collective identities shaped by it.