Meaning of Каждому — своё (To Each His Own) by Гражданская Оборона (Grazhdanskaya Oborona)

The Anthem of Individuality: Каждому — своё (To Each His Own) by Гражданская Оборона

Released in 1997, Каждому — своё (To Each His Own) is a powerful and thought-provoking song by the Russian punk rock band Гражданская Оборона (Grazhdanskaya Oborona). The song’s lyrics, penned by the band’s lead singer and founder, Konstantin Bushuyev, are a masterclass in storytelling, weaving together metaphors and imagery to explore themes of rebellion, individuality, and the struggle for personal freedom.

A Glimpse into the Psyche

The song’s opening lines, "Сырая лошадёнка вздымается внутри меня" (A raw foal rises inside me), set the tone for the rest of the song, hinting at the powerful emotions and ideas brewing within the speaker. This phrase is a perfect example of the band’s signature lyrical style, which often employs metaphors and imagery to convey complex emotions and thoughts. As I listened to this song for the first time, I was struck by the vividness of the imagery, which painted a picture in my mind of a powerful force building up inside the speaker, yearning to be set free.

Rebellion and Resistance

The song’s lyrics continue to build on this theme of resistance and rebellion, with "Белёсые затылки разрываются картечью" (White necks are torn apart by buckshot), which paints a graphic image of violence and struggle. This line is a powerful indictment of societal repression and the breaking of oppressive systems. As I reflected on this line, I couldn’t help but think of the countless individuals throughout history who have fought against oppressive regimes and systems, often paying the ultimate price for their bravery.

The Chorus: An Anthem of Individuality

The song’s chorus, "Каждому — своё" (To each his own), is a powerful anthem of individuality, urging listeners to embrace their uniqueness and not conform to societal expectations. This line is repeated twice, reinforcing the message that everyone has the right to their own path, opinions, and choices. As I listened to this song, I felt a sense of empowerment and freedom, as if the song was urging me to reject the status quo and forge my own path.

The Dark Underbelly of Human Nature

The second verse of the song introduces a darker theme, with "Завидные задатки, кровавые конфеты" (Enviable talents, bloody candies), which suggests a twisted and violent underbelly to human nature. This combination of envy and violence raises important questions about the value of talent and success in a world where violence and corruption prevail. As I reflected on this line, I was struck by the complexity of human nature, which is capable of both great beauty and great ugliness.

The Search for Meaning

The third verse of the song is a poignant exploration of the search for meaning and understanding in a chaotic and often incomprehensible world. The lines "Вселенские загадки, картавые ответы" (Universal riddles, slurred answers), hint at the limitations of human knowledge and understanding, highlighting the mysterious and often cruel nature of the universe. As I listened to this verse, I felt a sense of sadness and longing, as if the song was urging me to search for answers that may never come.

Conclusion

Каждому — своё (To Each His Own) is a song that rewards close listening and reflection. Its complex lyrics and powerful imagery paint a picture of a world that is often dark and confusing, but also full of beauty and possibility. As I reflected on this song, I was struck by the sense of individuality and rebellion that it embodies, urging listeners to embrace their uniqueness and fight against oppressive systems. Whether you’re a fan of punk rock or simply looking for a thought-provoking song to listen to, Каждому — своё (To Each His Own) is a must-listen.

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