Meaning of The Escapades Rap by The Clash

The Clash song titled 'The Escapades Rap' is a notable and catchy track, bringing attention to the underground art form of graffiti. The song is performed by Futura 2000, who shares his personal experiences and insights into this vibrant and misunderstood culture. As I delved into the lyrics, I couldn't help but notice the multiple standout and important lines which offer a wealth of imaginative themes, all tying back to the overarching message of the song - that graffiti is an art form that should be recognized and respected.One notable line that stands out is "graffiti is rockin' and it's on the go." This seemingly basic lyric holds a deeper meaning, emphasizing the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of graffiti. Just like rock music, graffiti is an expression of rebellion and freedom, constantly pushing the boundaries and surprising people along the way. This theme of constant movement and evolution connects graffiti to the concept of societal progress and the desire for change.Taking a closer look at the line "I realized then what I could do, I just check out the scene from a whole new view," we uncover another imaginative theme. This lyric emphasizes the power of perspective and reinvention. Graffiti offers a way to see the world through a different lens. By defying the status quo and reimagining public spaces, graffiti artists challenge existing norms and encourage others to question their perceptions. This theme beautifully ties into the idea that embracing different perspectives can lead to personal growth and societal transformation.Moving on, the line "There's a side that's good and there's a side that's bad, and on the inside, graffiti's always had that individual desire" imparts a contrast between good and evil. While graffiti may be regarded as vandalism by some, this lyric highlights the dual nature of graffiti. It acknowledges that graffiti can be both disruptive and artistic, revealing the underlying desires of rebellious individuals within society. This lyrical theme invites us to consider the varying motivations and intentions behind graffiti and challenges our preconceived notions.One of the most fascinating and unexpected themes emerges from the line "By the monster machines of the M.T.A." This lyric paints a vivid picture of an opposing force, a mechanical entity threatening to erase the creativity of graffiti artists. It introduces the concept of an ongoing battle between the organic and mechanical, the human spirit pitted against the forces of regulation and control. This theme provokes reflection on the struggles faced by creatives in a world that often seeks to stifle their expression.The song also references notable figures in the graffiti scene. Lines like "Keith Haring, rock the house, and the downtown scene, rock, shock the house now" and "Zephyr, [?], Dondi and Lee" shine a light on influential artists and their impact on the evolution of graffiti. These references serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness within the graffiti community and the importance of collaboration and mentorship. The theme here revolves around the power of individuals to inspire and influence others, fostering creativity and innovation.In conclusion, 'The Escapades Rap' by The Clash takes us on a journey through the world of graffiti, shedding light on its artistic and rebellious nature. The song explores themes such as constant movement and evolution, the power of perspective and reinvention, the duality of good and evil, the battle against external forces, and the impact of influential figures. Through these imaginative and unexpected themes, the song encourages listeners to reconsider their perceptions of graffiti, recognizing it as a powerful and expressive art form that deserves appreciation.