The song "Criminal" by Ben Jelen explores themes of deception, self-reflection, and societal ignorance. The lyrics depict the protagonist sailing through a sea of solitude, leaving behind lies and sadness. They metaphorically refer to their emotional baggage as an "angry anchor," indicating a desire to let go of past pains. The song suggests that during uncertain times, such as the one described, society tends to turn a blind eye to the truth. The winds blowing the other way symbolize a lack of awareness and understanding. The protagonist questions why they and others ignore what is happening around them, posing a dilemma for future generations who will wonder how they could have been so unaware. The lyrics emphasize the need to open one's eyes and face the harsh reality of a world filled with lies and insecurity. The line "We’re insecure 'cause we want more, What about the time before?" highlights the idea that society's desire for more, be it material possessions or personal gratification, has led to a prevalence of deception. The protagonist questions whether their previous ignorance was born out of innocence or simply complacency. Overall, "Criminal" calls for self-reflection, urging listeners to question their own role in perpetuating ignorance and to take responsibility for becoming more aware and actively seeking the truth. The song suggests that in order to break free from the cycle of deception, it is necessary to confront the harsh realities of the world and take action against them.
