Meaning of Faces by Michael Jackson

In the song "Faces" by Michael Jackson, the overall theme centers around the contrast between the worst of times and the best of times. It highlights the struggles and hardships faced by society, such as racism, prejudice, hatred, and violence that are breaking the heart of our planet and strangling its soul. However, it also emphasizes the hope and resilience that arise from these difficult circumstances, where humanity is coming alive like never before.One standout lyric in the song is, "Nelson Mandela: a black man, a former symbol of subjugation and slavery guides South Africa." This lyric symbolizes the triumph of democracy and freedom over oppression. It illustrates the theme of empowerment and the ability to rise above adversity. The idea that a symbol of subjugation and slavery can lead a nation towards progress and unity is an inspiring testament to the power of change.Another important lyric that helps develop the themes in the song is, "survival of the fittest is replaced by survival of the wisest." This line introduces the concept of the Age of Enlightenment, where intelligence and wisdom become the key factors for survival instead of physical strength or dominance. It encourages the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, highlighting the importance of intellectual growth and personal development in shaping a better future.The lyrics "let us dream of the great and sudden splendor of a new tomorrow" and "let us dream of the full flowering of a new collective consciousness" convey the theme of envisioning a brighter future. These words inspire hope and encourage us to imagine a world where we can hold our heads high and strive for perfection. The notion of a new collective consciousness emphasizes the need for unity and collective effort in order to achieve a better world.Furthermore, the lyric "let us dream of a tomorrow where our children are nurtured and protected and our elders revered and venerated" touches on the themes of intergenerational harmony and respect. It highlights the importance of nurturing and protecting future generations while showing reverence for the wisdom and experience of the elderly. This theme emphasizes the value of unity between different age groups and the need for mutual respect and understanding.Lastly, the line "let us remember those who dared to dream before us, and sacrifice their yesterday, so we could have our tomorrow" drives home the importance of acknowledging and honoring those who have paved the way for progress. It encourages us to appreciate the sacrifices made by previous generations in order to create a better world for future generations. This theme speaks to the concept of gratitude and recognizing the interconnectedness of humanity throughout time.Overall, "Faces" explores the dichotomy between the worst and the best of times, but ultimately emphasizes the power of hope, dreams, and unity. It touches on themes of empowerment, intellectual growth, intergenerational harmony, and gratitude. Through its imaginative and thought-provoking lyrics, the song serves as a call to action, inspiring listeners to envision a better world and actively work towards achieving it.