Super Heroes

The song 'Super Heroes' from The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a poignant exploration of existential despair and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The lyrics, delivered by characters Brad, Janet, and the Criminologist, delve into themes of disillusionment, inner turmoil, and the human condition. Brad's lines reflect a personal struggle with truth and integrity, revealing a deep sense of internal bleeding despite his efforts to find clarity. This metaphorical bleeding signifies emotional and psychological pain, suggesting that his quest for truth has left him more wounded than enlightened.

Janet's verse introduces a darker, almost apocalyptic imagery with 'superheroes' feasting on the flesh of the not yet deceased. This disturbing metaphor can be interpreted as a critique of those who exploit others' vulnerabilities for their gain, highlighting a predatory aspect of human nature. The 'beast' that continues to feed represents an insatiable hunger for power, control, or perhaps even survival, underscoring a grim view of humanity's darker instincts.

The Criminologist's closing lines offer a broader, more philosophical perspective. By referring to humans as 'insects' crawling on the planet's face, he diminishes the significance of the human race, portraying it as lost in time and space, and devoid of meaning. This nihilistic view suggests that despite our efforts to find purpose, we are ultimately insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe. The song, therefore, encapsulates a profound sense of existential angst, questioning the very essence of human existence and our place in the cosmos.