Public Defender
State Of Alert
The Harsh Reality of Authority: A Punk Anthem
State Of Alert's song 'Public Defender' is a raw and unfiltered critique of police brutality and the abuse of power by law enforcement. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society where individuals, particularly those who don't conform to societal norms, are targeted and mistreated by the police. The opening lines set the tone, warning listeners to be wary of police officers who are quick to use violence, symbolized by the 'stick.' This imagery immediately establishes a sense of fear and urgency.
The song delves deeper into the arbitrary nature of police actions, highlighting how superficial judgments based on appearance, such as hair and clothing, can lead to harassment. The repeated phrase 'He doesn't like you' underscores the personal bias and prejudice that can influence law enforcement behavior. This sentiment is further amplified by the lines 'Man in blue, come for you / Siren's red, gonna be dead,' which convey a sense of inevitable doom and the fatal consequences of such encounters.
The chorus, 'Keep the peace, what a load of shit / He doesn't care a fuckin' bit,' is a scathing indictment of the hypocrisy within the justice system. The promise of 'Justice for all' is revealed to be a hollow statement, especially for those who are marginalized or deemed undesirable. The song's raw language and aggressive tone reflect the frustration and anger of those who feel powerless against systemic oppression. 'Public Defender' serves as a powerful anthem for resistance, calling out the injustices faced by many and urging listeners to recognize and challenge the abuse of authority.