Meaning of Dreaming by System Of A Down

Dreaming, a powerful and thought-provoking song by System Of A Down, delves deep into the realm of societal issues and the human condition. Through its poignant lyrics, it explores themes of oppression, consumerism, the loss of identity, and the consequences of our actions. As we unpack the lyrics of this song, we discover a multitude of unexpected and imaginative thematic layers that contribute to the overall message.One standout lyric that demands attention is "For today, we will take their body parts and put them on the wall." This disturbing image serves as a metaphor for the objectification and dehumanization of individuals by those in power. It speaks to the darker aspects of society, where people are treated as mere commodities and their lives are reduced to a collection of body parts. This theme highlights the tragedies that occur when people are devalued and stripped of their humanity.Another noteworthy lyric in the song is "We're the prophetic generation of bottled water." This line intriguingly delves into the impact of consumerism on our lives. By likening our generation to a bottled water generation, the lyrics suggest that we have become products ourselves, carefully packaged and sold to the highest bidder. It presents the idea that our identities, desires, and dreams have been commodified, and we have lost touch with our authenticity. This theme emphasizes the need to break free from the consumer-driven society that restricts our ability to think and act independently.The repeated phrase "You went beyond and you lost it all" prompts us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others. It explores the fallouts of greed and hubris, reminding us that there are limits to what we can take and possess. The lyrics speak of someone who ventured too far, pushing boundaries until they reached a point of no return. This theme encourages us to consider the ethical implications of our choices and the potential disasters that may arise when we overstep our bounds.One particularly evocative lyric is "Someone kicked her into the back of the line/ She lost her head when they called and said that they thought he was dead." This line's narrative depicts a person who is marginalized and forgotten by society, further emphasizing the theme of oppression. It illustrates the struggles faced by those who are pushed aside, unnoticed, and left to suffer in silence. This theme brings attention to the importance of empathy and social awareness, encouraging us to consider the impact our actions have on the lives of others.Throughout Dreaming, the song continually pushes the boundaries of societal critique, presenting us with unexpected themes that force us to reflect on our individual and collective responsibilities. It urges us to reconsider the value we place on human life, the damaging effects of consumerism, the consequences of our actions, and the plight of those who are marginalized.In examining these lyrics and the imaginative themes within them, we ultimately arrive at the overarching theme of the song: the need for societal change and a reevaluation of our priorities. Dreaming acts as a wake-up call, urging us to recognize the consequences of our actions and the importance of empathy in a world where humanity is often disregarded. It challenges us to dream of a better future and take collective action to bring about lasting change.Dreaming is a song that challenges us to see beyond the surface and encourages contemplation of the world we live in. Its unique and imaginative themes leave a lasting impact, pushing us to question the status quo and strive for a more equitable and compassionate society. So, let us embrace our dreams, challenge oppressive systems, and work towards a future where the value of every life is treasured, and empathy becomes a guiding principle.