Meaning of 36 by System Of A Down

"In a world driven by television and the pressure to conform, System of a Down's song '36' delivers a powerful message about the importance of living life at your own pace. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the band explores themes of societal influence, personal freedom, and the fleeting nature of time."The opening lines of the chorus, "Television is disgrace, life you get old, it's the race," immediately set the tone for the song. The band criticizes the negative impact of television on our lives, suggesting that it distracts us from truly living and aging gracefully. Here, the theme of societal influence emerges, as the lyrics highlight how television can dictate our actions and values, pushing us into a never-ending race to keep up with societal expectations.One standout lyric that encapsulates the theme of personal freedom is "Can you break out, can you break out, will you live at your own pace?" This rhetorical question challenges the listener to consider whether they have the courage to break free from the constraints of society and forge their own path. It encourages individuals to embrace their individuality and resist the pressure to conform, ultimately promoting the idea that true happiness can be found by living life on one's own terms.Another notable line, "Life, so unnecessary," introduces the idea that the frantic pursuit of success and societal validation may lead to a life devoid of true meaning and fulfillment. This lyric delves into the existential themes of questioning the purpose of our existence and challenging society's definition of success. It encourages listeners to reevaluate their priorities and strive for a life that is personally fulfilling and aligned with their true desires.The recurring chorus further reinforces the song's themes, emphasizing the disgraceful nature of television and the concept of time as a relentless race. These lyrics highlight the fleeting nature of life, reminding us that we must make the most of our time by breaking free from societal expectations and living authentically.As the song reaches its conclusion, the outro poses the poignant question, "Will you live at your own pace?" It serves as a final call to action, challenging listeners to reflect on their choices and decide whether they will allow external pressures to dictate their lives or take control and live according to their own rhythm. This question ultimately ties back to the overarching theme of the song, urging individuals to embrace personal freedom and live life at their own pace.In summary, System of a Down's '36' delves into the themes of societal influence, personal freedom, and the fleeting nature of time. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the band urges listeners to break free from societal expectations, question the purpose of their existence, and embrace personal authenticity. With its powerful message and evocative themes, this song encourages us to live life on our own terms and seize the precious time we have been given.