Meaning of Fortress by System Of A Down

System Of A Down's song 'Fortress' explores the theme of disillusionment with society and the negative consequences of humanity's actions on the environment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world in which mankind's misguided pursuits have led to the forsaking of a once pristine and sacred fortress.The opening lines of the song introduce us to Kemper, who has managed to deceive the psychologists, or "the shrinks," highlighting the inherent deception that exists within society. This lyric suggests a theme of the individual's ability to manipulate and deceive those in power, symbolizing a loss of faith in the systems that are meant to protect and understand us.Further emphasizing the idea of deception is the recurring line: "The fortress of forever been forsaken." This metaphorical fortress represents the sanctity and purity of nature, but it has been abandoned and neglected due to humanity's actions. This lyric suggests a theme of humanity's disregard for the natural world and the consequences of our indifference.The mention of a man-made pond being polluted with blue dye brings attention to the destructive impact of human intervention. Air, water, trees, and life itself are contaminated, highlighting the irrevocable damage caused by our reckless actions. This theme explores the idea that the progress society has made at the expense of the environment is ultimately self-destructive, as it compromises the very essence of life.The line "Can we tamper, we have gained, outer space" introduces the theme of humanity's insatiable desire to control and manipulate even the unexplored frontiers of outer space. It speaks to our relentless pursuit of progress and power, often at the expense of the natural world. This theme suggests that our ambition to conquer and exploit extends beyond the boundaries of Earth, with potential dire consequences.The repetition of "That's not true, that's not true!" emphasizes the contradiction between our perception of progress and the reality of its consequences. The human race is held accountable for perpetuating false narratives and denying the damage caused, revealing a theme of denial and resistance to accepting responsibility for our actions.Lastly, the bridge highlights the mistaken belief that humanity's achievements are significant in the grand scheme of things. The man-made pond's pollution is symbolically polluting the skies, suggesting that our self-centered pursuits have cosmic repercussions. This theme emphasizes the insignificance of our achievements in the face of the broader universe, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet.In 'Fortress,' System Of A Down skillfully weaves together themes of deception, disillusionment, the destructive consequences of human actions on the environment, and the insignificant nature of our achievements. The song serves as a powerful critique of society's misguided priorities and calls for a awakening and responsibility towards the restoration and preservation of our fragile planet. It encourages listeners to reflect on the long-term impact of their choices and to consider the need for change on a societal level, ultimately urging us to become guardians rather than exploiters of the world around us.