Meaning of War? (Live) by System Of A Down

The System of a Down song "War? (Live)" is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that delves into the complex and multifaceted nature of war. The overarching theme of the song is the brutality and futility of war, highlighting the destructive cycle that it perpetuates. Through its lyrics, the song addresses various aspects of warfare, presenting imaginative themes that challenge listeners to reflect on the consequences and motivations behind conflicts.One standout lyric in the song is "Beliefs, they're the bullets of the wicked." This lyric suggests that the beliefs held by individuals or groups can be used as weapons to justify violent actions. It prompts us to consider how deeply entrenched ideologies and religious convictions can fuel conflicts throughout history. By exploring the notion of beliefs as ammunition, the lyric exposes the dangerous manipulation of faith for the pursuit of war.Another thought-provoking lyric is "One was written on the sword, for you must enter a room to destroy it, destroy it, destroy it." This line metaphorically highlights the paradoxical nature of warfare. It suggests that the act of destruction is necessary to ultimately bring about peace or resolution. However, it also brings attention to the inherent contradiction of using violence to achieve harmony. This theme undermines the concept of using war as a means to an end and invites contemplation on the conflicting ideologies that spark it.A particularly imaginative theme that emerges from the song is the notion of war as a part of history and human nature. The lyric "No International security, no call of the righteous man, needs a reason to kill a man, history teaches us so" alludes to the perpetuation of war throughout time. It highlights the idea that war is an intrinsic aspect of humanity's past and presents it as an unfortunate and cyclical reality of our existence. This theme prompts introspection regarding our inability to break free from the pattern of warfare, despite acknowledging its devastating consequences.Additionally, the lyric "His child, partisan brother of war" introduces the idea of war being passed down through generations. This theme focuses on the intergenerational perpetuation of conflict, suggesting that children are born into a world where war is already deeply embedded. It implies that the decision to engage in warfare is often influenced by familial and cultural factors, making it even more challenging to break the cycle. This theme emphasizes the long-lasting impact of war on society and the difficulties in achieving lasting peace.Overall, "War? (Live)" by System of a Down confronts the complexities and destructive nature of war. Through its powerful lyrics, the song explores themes such as the manipulation of beliefs, the paradoxical nature of destruction, war as a historical and human phenomenon, and the intergenerational nature of conflict. It forces listeners to confront the harsh realities of war and encourages them to question and challenge the motivations behind it. By sparking imaginative and unexpected themes, the song urges us to reflect on the futility of war and strive for alternative resolutions in the face of conflict.