Meaning of Soldier Side by System Of A Down

In the thought-provoking and emotionally charged song "Soldier Side" by System Of A Down, the band delves into various themes that explore both the individual and societal aspects of the human experience. The song primarily revolves around the somber and introspective tone of war, death, and the loss of hope. However, beneath the surface, there are multiple standout lyrics that contribute to the development of unexpected and imaginative themes, ultimately tying back to the overarching message of the song.Starting with the opening verse, "Dead man lying on the bottom of the grave, wondering when savior comes, is he gonna be saved?" provides a glimpse into existential ponderings around the uncertainty of salvation and the afterlife. This lyric introduces the theme of existential crisis within the context of war, highlighting the psychological toll it takes on individuals involved.The chorus, "They were crying when their sons left, God is wearing black, he's gone so far to find no hope, he's never coming back," expands on the theme of loss and grieving. It explores the perspective of loved ones left behind, who express their despair as they watch their sons depart for war, all the while feeling abandoned by their faith in God. This theme delves into the complexities of hope, questioning whether it exists in times of great turmoil.The second verse, "Young men standing on the top of their own graves, wondering when Jesus comes, are they gonna be saved?," introduces religious imagery and delves into the theme of faith. It reflects the desperation of soldiers who question their fate and whether their belief in salvation will be rewarded. This theme explores the psychological battle within oneself when confronted with mortality and the search for purpose amidst chaos.The lyric, "Cruelty to the winner, bishop tells the king his lies, maybe you're a mourner, maybe you deserve to die," presents a unique theme, focusing on the moral ambiguity of war. It challenges the notion of victory and righteousness, highlighting the cruel consequences and manipulation that can arise even in the supposed triumph. This theme provokes contemplation on the moral gray areas that arise during conflicts.Concluding the song, the outro lyric, "Welcome to the soldier side, where there's no one here but me, people all grow up to die, there is no one here but me," encapsulates the overarching theme of isolation and loneliness. It conveys the feeling of abandonment by society, where the individual soldier is left to face the consequences of war alone. This theme highlights the sacrifices made by those embroiled in conflict and their struggle to find solace amidst the devastation.Overall, "Soldier Side" encapsulates various thought-provoking and imaginative themes, offering a multifaceted exploration of war, faith, loss, morality, and existential crisis. System Of A Down's poetic and introspective lyrics create an emotional depth that encourages listeners to reflect on the universal experiences and emotions that arise in times of conflict. Through its poignant storytelling, this song becomes a poignant reminder of the complex web of emotions individuals navigate when confronted with the harsh realities of war, ultimately emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in a world plagued by violence.