Honking Antelope

Serj Tankian's song 'Honking Antelope' is a poignant reflection on the relationship between humanity and nature. The lyrics delve into themes of environmental degradation, the loss of indigenous cultures, and the resilience of nature despite human interference. Tankian, known for his work as the lead vocalist of System of a Down, often addresses social and political issues in his music, and 'Honking Antelope' is no exception. The song's title itself is a metaphor, with the 'honking antelope' symbolizing the natural world's cry for attention amidst the chaos caused by human actions.

The lyrics invite listeners to 'photograph everything that ever passed in time,' suggesting a need to preserve and remember the past, especially the indigenous cultures and their wisdom. The mention of 'tribal chiefs' and 'vanishing hereditary lines' highlights the loss of these cultures and their deep connection to nature. Tankian contrasts this with the destructive behavior of 'poets gone wild on the muse' and 'prophets all destroying the Tao,' indicating how modern society often disregards the balance and harmony that these ancient cultures maintained.

The recurring imagery of the 'honking antelope' and the 'secret dance of snakes' serves as a reminder of nature's enduring presence and its ability to outlast human folly. The lines 'Nature based beings will survive apocalyptic days of now' and 'Nature will survive us human dogs after all' underscore the idea that despite the damage humans inflict on the environment, nature will ultimately prevail. The song ends on a hopeful note, pondering the possibility of healing the world through music, a testament to Tankian's belief in the power of art to inspire change.